Good vision and safe driving go hand in hand. So, looking after your vision is essential for keeping yourself and other drivers safe. Read on for some eye care tips for conscientious drivers.
Wear prescription sunglasses
Glare from the sun isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s also incredibly dangerous when you’re behind the wheel. It contributes to a high number of road crashes every year. To keep yourself and other motorists safe and to reduce the likelihood of a car accident, always wear prescription sunglasses when you’re driving in bright conditions. High-quality sunglasses not only ensure your eyes are protected from UV rays, but they’ll also help to reduce glare with polarized lenses. They’re available in a wide range of colors and styles, which means you’re sure to find something that suits your lifestyle.
Bonus tip: Avoid storing your sunglasses in your vehicle. Hot temperatures in your car during the summer months could cause them to bend and warp, leaving you will a poorer fit and damaged lenses.
Always wear your prescribed glasses
If you’re someone who normally wears prescription glasses or contacts, then you need to wear them when you’re driving. Worryingly, many motorists avoid wearing their glasses behind the wheel for vanity reasons however doing so could invalidate your insurance and land you in trouble with the police if you’re pulled over. Neglecting to wear your glasses also means you’re more likely to make mistakes and cause a road accident, endangering yourself and other road users in the process.
Be wary of fatigue
Fatigue is a killer on the roads, and it also leaves your eyes dry, itchy and uncomfortable. This can make it harder to focus on the road ahead, and you could also be left with blurred vision, headaches and sore eyes. Make sure you’re well-rested before you get behind the wheel and if you feel tired whilst driving, pull over and rest before you set off again.
Get your eyes checked
Having regular eye tests will keep your eyes healthy and your prescription up to date. It’s also important to visit your optometrist as they’ll be able to spot the early signs of weakening vision, and other sight problems that could make driving dangerous. Your optometrist will be able to help measure your overall vision health, depth perception and night vision skills, all of which deteriorate as we get older.
Recognize potential eye issues
Whether you have a genetic disorder, you’ve developed a health condition or you’re simply under the weather, recognizing when your vision is deteriorating is important for keeping yourself and other road users safe. If you currently have high blood pressure, diabetes, have been recently diagnosed with an overactive thyroid or you’re currently suffering from a sinus infection or ear problems then you could be at risk of limited sight or issues with your depth perception and overall vision.
Reduce glare
Glare is one of the biggest issues of nighttime vision, so to help reduce the impact, keep your windshield clean and clear of dirt, smears and grease. This will help you maintain good vision when driving at night. This is a great eye care tips for conscientious drivers
Final thoughts…
Maintaining good eye health when driving is important for your safety and for the safety of others. Visit your optometrist regularly and head online for the latest eyewear and lens options.
