Experts are calling on the Government to urgently introduce new eyesight rules for motorists in the interest of road safety.
The Association of Optometrists and The College of Optometrists have called on Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander to introduce mandatory vision checks.
Experts have suggested that eyesight checks would be required at the first licence application and at every renewal.
It follows a scathing report from HM Senior Coroner for Lancashire, Dr James Adeley, who conducted an inquest into the deaths of four people killed by motorists with poor eyesight.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
Experts are calling for major driving law changes to improve road safety
PA/GETTY
The Prevention of Future Death Report stated that enforcement of visual legal standards was among the "laxest in Europe", as well as "ineffective and unsafe".
As part of the joint letter, the experts said vision checks would also apply to elderly drivers over the age of 70 when they reapply for their licence every three years.
The letter states: "We strongly believe that vision-related accidents are preventable with simple, evidence-based legislative changes.
"The UK's approach is out of step with best practice internationally and the current vision standards mean UK drivers do not undergo an objective measure of vision and assessment of eye health.
"With over 7,000 optometry practices nationwide, optometrists are well placed to support the delivery of these checks swiftly and effectively. Lives can and must be saved by ensuring no driver with unsafe vision remains on the road unchecked."
The minimum standard of vision for driving requires motorists to read a standard car number plate from 20 metres.
They must also meet the minimum eyesight standard for driving by having a visual acuity of at least decimal 0.5 (6/12) measured on the Snellen scale.
Despite this, the letter to the Transport Secretary notes that only the number plate check is done during the driving test. It is also carried out by a driving instructor, rather than an eye care professional.
It also highlights that the UK is only one of five countries that use a number plate to test drivers' vision, and only one of three to use self-reporting.
Other European countries, like Germany, Spain and Finland, require "periodic eyesight assessments" to maintain road safety, which has also been backed by motorists.
The letter concludes: Given your openness to reviewing the evidence, we would very much welcome the opportunity to meet with you or your officials to share data, insight, and practical proposals for reform. Thank you for your consideration on this pressing public safety issue."
A Department for Transport spokesperson said: "Every death on our roads is a tragedy, and our thoughts remain with the families of everyone who has lost a loved one in this way.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Experts have previously called for compulsory eyesight tests once a driver reaches 70 years of age
PA"The NHS recommends adults should have their eyes tested every two years and drivers are legally required to inform the DVLA if they have a condition which affects their eyesight.
"We are committed to improving road safety and continue to explore ways to achieve this."
