Optical bodies call for driver screening tests

Calls for a more systematic and scientific method of assessing drivers' vision are being made to the government by the Optical Confederation and the Eye Health Alliance.

The Optical Confederation is calling for the system of vision screening - to which professional drivers are currently subjected - to be extended to all drivers, replacing the basic number plate test.

Criticising the lack of proper screening for drivers, a spokesperson for the Confederation commented: 'The number plate test is inadequate to assess a driver's vision for several reasons - it is outdated, it can be affected by environmental conditions on the day, it is inaccurate, has no scientific basis and it is not validated. This means that the results will not be consistent and cannot be repeated which makes it unfair to drivers.'