Motorists are being warned that they could face a hefty fine, nine points on their license and even jail time if they break the rules. If you suspect that you may be at risk of violating any of these rules, it is recommended that you take immediate action.
Compare the Market’s car insurance team has warned drivers about the importance of making sure their vision meets legal standards or face fines of up to £1,000. Shockingly, poor eyesight causes nearly 3,000 road accidents each year in the UK. So what rules should drivers take into account? And can the consequences really be that serious? Here’s what you need to know.
Drivers can face a £1,000 fine for wearing tinted glasses or lenses at night
Road Traffic Act: Rule 97
Penalty: 3 points and a fine of between £1,000 and £2,500
Motorists should be careful in their choice of clothing, including sunglasses, to ensure safe driving. Wearing sunglasses without daylight can restrict visibility on the road, resulting in a £1,000-£2,500 fine and possible driving ban.
Getting into an accident caused by vision can lead to two years in prison
Road Traffic Act: Rule 92
Penalty: Two years imprisonment / unlimited fine and 3-11 points
Drivers have been warned to keep their prescriptions and eye health up to date to avoid possible jail sentences, fines and other dangerous driving. Ignoring your eye health or medication prescriptions can lead to up to two years in prison if a road user is involved in an accident.
Failure to wear glasses can result in a £1,000 fine or driving ban
Road Traffic Act: Rule 97
Penalty: 3 points and a £1,000 fine
If the road does not have a full view of the road ahead, drivers can be fined between £1,000 and £2,500. It is important for those who need glasses to wear them while driving to ensure safety.
Postponing an eye test can result in a fine of £1,000 to £2,500
Road Traffic Act: Rule 92
Penalty: 3 points and a £1,000 fine or possible disqualification
Neglecting something as basic as an eye test can land drivers with a hefty £1,000 fine and even disqualification. It is important for motorists to schedule regular eye examinations to ensure that their vision is in good condition while driving. Drivers can also be fined or even jailed for negligent or careless driving if they fail to meet minimum vision requirements. All drivers must be able to read a vehicle’s number plate from a distance of 20 meters, and if glasses are required, they must be worn at all times while driving and must be correct.
Dazzling other drivers with headlights or brake lights can result in an unlimited fine or a discretionary disqualification
Road Traffic Act: Rule 114
Penalty: 3-9 points and an unlimited fine
Unnecessary use of high beams can cause discomfort or impair the visibility of other road users, in which case the driver can receive an unlimited fine. Drivers should only use front or rear fog lights when visibility is “severely reduced” and turn them off immediately when visibility improves. In traffic, drivers should avoid using the brakes while standing still to minimize reflections on the cars behind, and use the handbrake instead. Another thing to consider is “glaring” sunlight. Between 2021 and 2022, the number of car accidents caused by the glare of the sun increased by 37 percent, so it is important to remember this.
Julie Daniels from Compare the Market’s car insurance team advises: “For drivers, maintaining good vision is an essential part of complying with road traffic laws and ensuring safety on the road. The recommended frequency of eye tests is once every two years, but more may be necessary if advised by a doctor.
“Maintain clear vision by wearing glasses or contacts if necessary while driving and consider keeping a spare pair in your car for emergencies. Maintaining your vision is key when hitting the road as it is an important tool for your safety and other road users.”
