The Vision Council of America believes that the sun is one of the most overlooked dangers while driving, particularly during the height of morning and afternoon travel. Thousands of people are injured each year, some fatally, as a result of sun glare.
We often throw our hands in the air at the dangerous driving of others and need the assistance of effective traffic enforcement to remove these drivers from the roads. Unfortunately there is not much we can do about this threat. What we can do something about is to attend to our ability to rely on clear vision on the road and to observe threats on the road.
As a minimum legal requirement, motorists must be able to read a number plate from a distance of 20.5 metres (67 feet) and have a 120 degree wide field of view. It is a driver’s responsibility to ensure that he can pass the number plate test at all times. You must also be able to see clearly out of the corners of your eyes, see clearly at night and not have double vision. It’s important to remember that if you fail to meet these visual standards you are breaking the law every time you start your engine.
It is important for drivers to be aware of changes in their eyesight and to have a regular eye examination (at least every two years).
The Arrive Alive website has included content on the topic “Eye Protection and Road Safety”. In this section we have tried to include safety advice on how to protect eyesight and what to look for when purchasing sunglasses.
We cannot emphasize enough the importance to care for eyesight. This is something that we should not delay for attention later – act immediately if you believe your vision is not what it used to be!
Visit the Arrive Alive website for info on “Eye Protection and Road Safety”
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