Your Vision And Safe Driving

If you wear prescription glasses or contacts to drive, you are in the majority.  According to new American Automobile Association (AAA) research, more than 6 in 10 U.S. drivers rely on prescription eyewear behind the wheel.  

The new AAA study, released prior to the end of Daylight Saving Time last weekend,  highlights the importance of wearing your eyewear when driving. AAA says a significant majority of U.S. adults rely on prescription lenses for purposes beyond reading, with 62% wearing eyeglasses, sunglasses, or contact lenses.  Researchers say while the vast majority (80%) of drivers who wear prescription lenses report wearing them all the time when driving, 16% only wear them under certain circumstances, and 3% never do so. However, most (94%) of those required to wear corrective lenses on their driver’s license always wear them when driving. 

The AAA study also highlights the importance of regular eye exams. Nearly two-thirds of drivers who wear prescription lenses had a vision test or eye exam within the last year, but a notable 37% hadn’t had an exam in over a year or longer. Researchers found that younger drivers, aged 18-54, were particularly likely to have missed recent eye exams, with only 53% having had one within the past year.  In light of the study, AAA is encouraging all drivers to prioritize their eye health and make sure their prescriptions are up-to-date. Regular eye exams can identify potential vision problems and ensuring safe driving conditions.

With it now getting darker earlier, AAA recommends these tops for drivers:

• Compensate for reduced visibility by decreasing your speed and increasing the following distance to four or more seconds behind the car in front of you. 
• Keep your eyes moving. Do not focus on the middle of the area illuminated by your headlights. Watch for sudden flashes of light at hilltops, around curves, or at intersections, as these may indicate the presence of oncoming vehicles. 
• Look at the sides of objects. In dim light, focus on the edges or outlines of objects. Your eyes can pick up images more sharply this way than by looking directly at the object. 
• Avoid being blinded by oncoming high beams. If the driver of an oncoming vehicle fails to dim the lights, look down toward the right side of the road. You should be able to see the edge of the lane or the white-painted edge line and stay on course until the vehicle passes.

For more tips. check out Car Pro Show host Jerry Reynolds' advice article on the Dangers of Nighttime Driving here.