EYE-TESTING DRIVERS

Press, Volume C, Issue 29505, 5 May 1961, Page 12

EYE-TESTING DRIVERS

Age Reduction Suggested

(NZ Press Association! WELLINGTON. May 4 The practicability and desirability of testing the eyesight of drivers every five years after they reach the age of 50 would be investigated the Road Safety Council decided today At present, holders of driving licences do not have to undergo eye tests until they are 70 The council today considered a report from the Transport Department in which it was stated that the road safety committee of the Ophthalmologies! Society had stated that visual defects could be factors in accidents caused by failure to yield the right of way. inattention, turning suddenly and passim? negligently, and that the Institute of Opticians had reported that deterioration of eyesight and visual performance throughout the years was absolutely recognised Most drivers who failed a vision test would not be prevented from driving, but thev could obtain glasses with which they could pass the •est said the department The Minister of Transport (Mr McAlpine) said there must be thousands of drivers who should wear glasses Tests would have a considerable effect on road safety The sight of most people began to deteriorate .-after the age of 45.