Vision Tests For Drivers

Press, Volume C, Issue 29499, 28 April 1961, Page 10

Vision Tests For Drivers

The defective and “fuzzy” vision of a substantial proportion of motorists has been called “the great unrecognised highway menace,” said a further report from the commissioner, discussed recently by the motor drivers’ sub-committee.

Releasing the report, the i ehairman of the sub-commit-tee (Mr McCleary) said a proposal that drivers’ vision should be tested at intervals oh relicensing, after middle age is reached, would be considered by the Road Safety Council on May 4. At present, after the initial test, a driver gets no eye examination until the age of 70. says the report. The report quotes the Institute of Opticians of New Zealand as saying that about 10 per cent, of drivers actually on the road no not reach the present required standard of vision.

Deterioration of eyesight and visual performance throughout the years is absolutely recognised.

In 1957, the American Optometric Association conducted a survey of 3000 licensed drivers which showed that 22 per cent, were sub-standard in depth

perception. 21 per cent, had poor acuity, and 10 per cent, had limited field of vision. In North Carolina, there has been a clear-cut reduction in traffic fatalities since eye tests were introduced. The commissioner’s report said that, should, the proposal for vision retesting be adopted in New Zealand, most drivers who failed the test would not be prevented from driving. They would be able to obtain suitable spectacles which would enable them to pass the test.