Eyesight-related conditions are among the most common reasons someone might have to hand their licence over
A Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) letter in a brown envelope on a door mat – UK(Image: clubfoto via Getty Images)
Thousands of driving licences have been revoked over the last three years for people with health conditions that could pose a danger on the roads. The DVLA has the power to remove licences or refuse renewal applications if it thinks a person’s condition could impact their ability to drive safely.
Eyesight-related conditions are among the most common reasons someone might have their licence revoked. More than 35,000 drivers have been barred from driving over the last three years for this reason, data obtained by BirminghamLive showed.
The agency said it revoked licences or refused new applications for “failing to meet the required eyesight standards”. And it comes as the Government prepares to get tougher around older drivers and eyesight rules.
Over-70s soon may have to take mandatory vision tests in order to remain on the road. Common conditions may include glaucoma or severe cataracts.
These may need to be reported to the DVLA. Motorists are required to renew their licences at their 70th birthday, and every three years after that.
So it’s likely some of these renewal applications were refused amid safety concerns. Tim Alcock, director at LeaseCar, said: “Drivers have a legal obligation to report certain eye conditions to the DVLA.
“You must report conditions like glaucoma diabetic retinopathy or severe cataracts if they affect both eyes or cause your vision to fall below the minimum legal sight standard. Specifically glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy must be reported so the DVLA can assess your field of vision and stability of sight.
“Failing to report a condition that affects your ability to drive safely can result in a fine of up to £1,000.” He added: “Reduced daylight hours and often adverse weather conditions already strain our eyes but the modern vehicle lighting environment is making things much harder.
“The intense blue light emitted by newer LED headlights causes light to scatter more readily in the eye which dramatically increases the sensation of glare and starbursts for many people.
“It’s vital that drivers understand how certain existing eye conditions can worsen these issues and take proactive steps to ensure their vision is up to par before heading out into the dark.”