Drivers are being warned that they could risk a hefty fine, nine points and jail time if they break rules when they are behind the wheel. And if you think you could be at risk of breaking one of these, they are urging people to act now.
The car insurance team at Compare the Market has warned drivers that people need to make sure that their eyesight meets the legal requirements, otherwise they could risk fines of up to £1,000. In fact, poor eyesight causes nearly 3,000 road casualties every year in the UK.
So what rules do drivers need to be aware of? And can you really get such severe consequences? Here is 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
Drivers need to be mindful of items of clothing, including sunglasses, to operate the car safely. Wearing sunglasses outside of daylight hours can limit the view of the road, leading to fines ranging from £1,000 to £2,500 and possible driving disqualification.
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
Road users are warned to keep prescriptions and eye health up to date to avoid potential prison time for dangerous driving. Neglecting 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
Something as simple as putting off an eye test could result in a massive £1,000 fine and potential disqualification. Drivers need to make sure they are scheduling regular eye tests to ensure their vision is completely clear for driving.
Drivers can also be fined, or face prison time, for careless or inconsiderate driving if they do not meet minimum eyesight requirements. All drivers should be able to read a vehicle number plate from a distance of 20 metres. If the driver needs glasses to do this, they must wear glasses of the correct prescription while driving at all times.
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."
