Drivers in the West Midlands say they’d fail their driving test if they took it today

A poll of West Midlands motorists found that a third (33%) fear they’d be marked down for their inability to parallel park, while a third (33%) also admit they’re now confused by new road signs and driving laws.

It’s not just driving skills holding them back, a lack of awareness around vision requirements also contributes. Less than one in five West Midlands drivers describe their understanding of the UK’s eyesight rules for motorists as ‘excellent’ and 13% admit they avoid certain driving conditions or scenarios altogether due to concerns about their sight.

More than a quarter (26%) of those without perfect vision believe their years of driving experience compensate for not being able to see clearly.

Majid Jawaid, optometrist director at Specsavers West Bromwich and Bearwoodsays: ‘There are some places you should never be if you’re worried about your eyesight and behind the wheel is one of them. Especially at this time of year, when we’re often driving in wet and dark conditions, we have to be so careful. And not only when it comes to other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and even pets can dart in front of our cars in the blink of an eye.’

The study found that potholes or changes to the road surface are the most common things motorists have struggled to see while driving, selected by 26% of respondents. Meanwhile, 17% have failed to spot cyclists in blind spots or low light and 10% have had difficulty making out lane markings. A fifth (20%) admitted they struggle to see anything at all when it’s raining.

As a result, almost a half (49%) believe eyesight checks should be a mandatory part of renewing a UK driving licence. A further 27% don’t think poor vision is treated seriously enough as a road safety issue and one in ten people have worried about someone else’s eyesight while being driven by them.

When struggling to see properly behind the wheel, 45% of West Midlands drivers have simply slowed down and hoped for the best, while 36% have avoided driving at night altogether.

Of the 59% who are supposed to wear glasses or contact lenses while driving, a third of respondents admitted to going without them. The most common reasons were travelling a short distance (35%), forgetting them (31%), only or finding them uncomfortable (15%).

Hardip Bahia, ophthalmic director at Specsavers Wolverhampton and Wednesfield, adds: ‘If you do need prescription glasses or contacts to drive, you should always wear them regardless of the journey. It’s been reported that most traffic accidents happen close to the person’s home, as that’s naturally where they do the most driving. So even if you’re only going half a mile up the road, you should do all you can to keep yourself and others safe.’

For expert guidance on driving safety and vision care solutions, visit https://www.specsavers.co.uk/glasses/driving-glasses