Motorists are being cautioned that they could face a hefty fine, nine points on their licence and even jail time if they flout driving regulations. If you suspect you might be in danger of violating one of these rules, it’s advised to take action immediately.
The car insurance team at Compare the Market has issued a warning to drivers about the importance of ensuring their eyesight meets legal standards, or risk fines of up to £1,000. Shockingly, poor vision is responsible for nearly 3,000 road casualties annually in the UK. So, what rules should drivers be mindful of? And can the consequences really be so severe? Here’s what you need to know.
Drivers could face a £1,000 fine for wearing tinted glasses or lenses at night
Highway Code: Rule 97
Penalty: 3 points and a £1,000 – £2,500 fine
Motorists must be cautious about their choice of attire, including sunglasses, to ensure safe driving. Using sunglasses when it’s not daylight can restrict road visibility, resulting in penalties from £1,000 to £2,500 and potential disqualification from driving.
Getting into an accident caused by vision could result in two years imprisonment
Highway Code: Rule 92
Penalty: Two years imprisonment/ unlimited fine and 3-11 points
Drivers have been warned to keep prescriptions and eye health up to date to avoid potential prison time, fines and more for dangerous driving. Ignoring your eye health or prescriptions could lead to up to two years in prison if road users are unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident.
Not wearing glasses if you need to can result in a £1,000 fine or disqualification from driving
Highway Code: Rule 97
Penalty: 3 points and a £1,000 fine
Failing to have a full view of the road ahead can leave drivers with a fine of £1,000 to £2,500. It’s crucial for those who need glasses to wear them while driving to ensure safety.
Putting off an eye test could result in a £1,000 to £2,500 fine
Highway Code: Rule 92
Penalty: 3 points and a £1,000 fine or potential disqualification
Neglecting something as basic as an eye test could land drivers with a hefty £1,000 fine and even disqualification. It’s crucial for motorists to schedule regular eye tests to ensure their vision is up to scratch for driving. Drivers can also be slapped with fines, or even face jail time, for careless or inconsiderate driving if they fail to meet the minimum eyesight standards. All drivers should be capable of reading a vehicle number plate from a distance of 20 metres and if glasses are required to achieve this, they must be worn at all times while driving and they must be the correct prescription.
Dazzling other drivers with headlights or brake lights could result in an unlimited fine or a discretionary qualification
Highway Code: Rule 114
Penalty: 3-9 points and an unlimited fine
Using full-beam headlights unnecessarily could cause discomfort or obscure the visibility of other road users, potentially landing drivers with an unlimited fine. Drivers must only use front or rear fog lights when visibility is ‘seriously reduced’ and switch these off immediately after visibility improves. When in traffic, drivers should refrain from using the brake while stationary to minimise glare to cars behind, and instead use the handbrake. Another thing to consider is ‘dazzling’ sunlight. From 2021 – 2022, there was a 37% increase in car accidents attributed to dazzling sun, so it’s important to be mindful of this.
Julie Daniels from the car insurance team at Compare the Market advises: “For drivers, maintaining good eyesight is an essential part of following the Highway Code and ensuring safety on the road. The recommended frequency for eye tests is once every two years, though more might be necessary if advised by a medical professional.
“Keep clear vision by wearing your glasses or contacts if needed while driving and consider keeping a spare pair of these in your car for emergencies. Maintaining your vision is the key when taking to the roads as this is an essential tool for the safety of you and other road users.”
