Is your vision roadworthy?

Essex Police are supporting a national campaign which highlights that drivers have a legal obligation to ensure that their vision is good before they take to the roads.

If someone is found to be driving with vision that falls below the minimum standards, they could face up to a £1,000 fine, three points on their licence and potential disqualification. 

Under legislation known as Cassie’s Law, drivers who fail a roadside number plate test can have their driving licence revoked on the spot if a police officer deems them unsafe to be on the road.

Essex Police issued 335 revocations between 2014 and 2022, coming second to Sussex Police with 346 revocations – that’s the equivalent of 13.8% and 14.2% (respectively) of the total number of recorded revocations by 44 police forces. 

Essex Police’s Road Policing Team will carry out on-the-spot eyesight tests throughout the campaign, which runs between 27 February and 12 March.

Adam Pipe, Head of Roads Policing, said: “Your sight is one of the most important tools used to drive; it means you can judge the road conditions and allows you time to adjust your driving in hazardous circumstances.

“But, as we age, our eyesight can deteriorate, meaning we may need glasses. 

“In general, eye experts recommend drivers have their eyes tested every two years. 

“Most drivers know that their car needs to be roadworthy and will service and MOT it. I’d urge drivers to check their eyesight too so they can keep themselves and others safe.”

The campaign is being coordinated by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC).

Chief Constable Jo Shiner, NPCC lead for roads policing, said: “Personal responsibility is the starting point for safer roads.

“Making sure your eyesight meets the standards of vision for driving is really important and something only you can do to keep yourself and all other road users safe while driving.”

02 March 2023