Can you read a number plate at 20 metres?

This is the question our officers will be asking drivers they stop during a national campaign starting this week to remind drivers of their legal duty to meet minimum eyesight standards when driving.

During roadside vision checks drivers will be asked to read a number plate from 20 metres in daylight conditions, wearing any glasses or contacts they were wearing when stopped by our officers.

This isn’t the only legal requirement. Drivers must also have a visual acuity of at least 6/12 measured on the Snellen scale with glasses or contact lenses if needed and an adequate field of vision.  Stricter rules apply to lorry and bus drivers.

Inspector Wayne Boulton said “Many drivers know the risks of worn tyres, but not that poor eyesight can lead to a £1,000 fine, three penalty points, or even disqualification. With 90% of driving information being visual, good eyesight is essential for road safety.”

Under Cassie’s Law, drivers who fail the roadside test could have their licence revoked immediately if deemed unfit to drive.

Motorists are urged to have their eyes tested every two years to ensure their vision remains roadworthy.

Chief Constable Jo Shiner, National Police Chief Constable Lead Roads Policing comments “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.” 

 For practical advice and information about vision and driving visit www.VisionAndDriving.info