Check your eyes before clocks go back, says optician

A Rochdale optician is recommending that drivers have an eye examination ahead of British Summer Time officially ending.

Rod Fullalove, store director of Specsavers in Rochdale, says: “As soon as the clocks go back, commuters, many of whom are already tired after a day at work, also find their drive home is immediately that little bit darker.

“While it may not feel dark as such, dusk is a particularly hazardous time for motorists as they have to continually adapt to the changing levels of light. This is especially difficult when drivers are not used to driving in the dark, as many aren’t at this time of year.

“One step all motorists can take to ensure they are driving safely is to make sure their eyes are checked regularly, not just for the safety of pedestrians but also for their passengers.”

The recommendation comes after a survey by Specsavers found that 14 per cent of drivers in the North West were unable to read a standard number plate from a distance of 20.5 metres, as required in the standard driving test.

Of the 1,600 drivers questioned, more than one in three is taking to the roads without having a recent eye examination, meaning that motorists across Rochdale could be driving illegally, invalidating their insurance cover and putting countless lives at risk.

To minimise the risks of road accidents, Mr Fullalove urges drivers to follow a few simple steps:

• Get your eyes checked regularly and if you are told to wear glasses when driving – wear them! Failure to do so not only means breaking the law but putting yourself and others in danger
• If you wear glasses, make sure your lenses are clean before you begin your journey. If your glasses are scratched or damaged it’s important to get them repaired – scratches can reflect light and distract you when driving
• Carry a spare pair of glasses or contact lenses with you at all times just in case they get damaged
• Make sure your windscreen and windows are clean at the beginning of your journey to ensure clear vision at all times. This also goes for headlights, indicators, hazard lights and brake lights
• Some styles of glasses are inappropriate for night time driving and can reduce your visibility or cause dazzling, please check with your optician if your lenses are suitable