The conversations that follow after a fatal road accident caused by poor eyesight frequently call for more stringent regulation around medical fitness to drive to prevent further accidents. Particularly when the motorist's eyesight was raised as a concern, the public rightly question why nothing was done to stop the driver from getting behind the wheel.
Last year the case of Poppy-Arabella Clarke, a three-year-old who died when a driver with poor sight hit her as she crossed the road, was all the more tragic since it was completely avoidable.
At our June Council meeting, an AOP position statement on driving and vision, which addresses some of these crucial areas, was considered by councillors alongside updated member guidance on driving and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
The AOP’s position statement contends that the present UK system, which relies on self-reporting and an initial number plate test, is inadequate. It calls for vision screening to be introduced as a legal requirement for drivers at least every 10 years, alongside recommended sight tests every two years. We are working with partners across the sector to develop a programme to influence political decision makers.
The AOP does, however, argue against making it mandatory for optometrists to report a patient to the DVLA if their vision falls below the required standard, because we believe this removes responsibility from the driver and could discourage some people from accessing eye examinations.
At the meeting, AOP board member, Dr Julie-Anne Little, presented the evidence and regulatory background to the position statement. She contrasted the approach taken in the UK with regulatory requirements in Europe.
More information is available at www.aop.org.uk/drivingvision