UK drivers who get their eyes tested warned of major guidance change set to be issued in weeks
UK drivers who get their eyes tested are being warned about an update on guidance concerning eye conditions
PA
UK drivers who get their eyes tested are being warned about an update on guidance concerning eye conditions which is set to be released within weeks.
The DVLA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) is updating its guidance on notifiable eye conditions after the Association of Optometrists (AOP) raised serious concerns over the published list.
The group said the list was so extensive that it could apply to almost every driver who receives a sight test.
The AOP wrote to the DVLA calling for an urgent review, highlighting that “if the current guidance remains in place, almost every driver who receives a sight test will need to be advised to notify the DVLA”.
The group said the list was so extensive that it could apply to almost every driver who receives a sight test
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The DVLA agreed to remove the list and said it would "welcome the opportunity" to work with the AOP to revise the current guidance.
Adam Sampson, chief executive for the AOP, said: “We’ve continued to have an open dialogue with the DVLA on this important issue to work towards a pragmatic solution for our members, patients and the DVLA.”
Sampson emphasised that the extent of the original list “would have been problematic for so many".
"The move is sure to remove an unnecessary administrative burden for practitioners but also alleviate worry for many patients,” he added.
In October, the DVLA reviewed the list following sector consultation and since then the AOP has continued to work with the DVLA policy team to discuss refinements.
It has also consulted with the Secretary of State for Transport’s Medical Advisory Panel on visual issues and driving.
Rules issued by the DVLA stated that if vision was a factor in an accident, a £1,000 fine and three points would be issued to the driver if the motorist had not notified the DVLA of the condition prior to the incident.
In more serious cases, it could result in a driving disqualification.
The DVLA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) is updating its guidance on notifiable eye conditions
PA
It follows research by the AOP which revealed that two-thirds of drivers in the UK who use glasses are putting off updating their prescription.
While up to 20 per cent of drivers had not had a recent eye test.
Optometry Today has said it will release updated guidance in relation to its list of notifiable eye conditions.