•Dr Priscilia Imade
We will continue our discussion on good eyesight and road safety by looking at the types of eye examination required by drivers.
Driving places a high demand on the visual system. It requires constant attention, quick decision-making and the ability to respond promptly to changes on the road. Because of this, good vision is one of the most important requirements for safe driving.
A driver who has undetected eye problems may not only put himself at risk but also endanger passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. For this reason, certain eye examinations are required for drivers to ensure that their vision is adequate for safe driving.
1. Visual Acuity Test:
This examination measures how clearly a person can see both at distance and at near. It checks if the driver can read road signs, recognise objects, and identify hazards early enough. Reduced clarity of vision can make it difficult to drive safely, especially at night or in bad weather conditions.
2. Visual Field Test:
Driving does not only depend on seeing straight ahead but also on the ability to notice things happening at the sides. This test measures how wide a person can see without turning his/her head. A restricted visual field may prevent a driver from noticing cars, pedestrians, or cyclists approaching from the side, which can lead to accidents.
3. Depth Perception Test:
This test checks the ability to judge distance between objects. It is especially important when overtaking, parking, or maintaining a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Poor depth perception increases the risk of misjudging distances on the road.
4. Colour Vision Test:
Traffic lights, road signs, and lane markings often rely on colour coding. A colour vision test ensures that the driver can distinguish between red, green, yellow, and other important colours. While mild colour vision problems may not always disqualify a driver, severe cases can affect road safety.
5. Contrast Sensitivity Test:
This test examines how well a driver can see objects against different backgrounds, such as a dark car on a dimly lit road. Good contrast sensitivity is important for night driving and in foggy or rainy conditions where visibility is reduced.
6. Eye Health Examination:
An overall eye health check is also required to detect diseases such as glaucoma, cataract, or retinal problems. Some of these conditions may reduce vision gradually without the driver being aware. Detecting them early allows treatment before vision is seriously affected.
Finally, a comprehensive eye examination for drivers should cover clarity of vision, visual fields, depth judgment, colour recognition, contrast sensitivity, and general eye health.
These examinations are not just a formality; they are essential steps in protecting lives on the road.
All drivers should take eye examinations seriously and repeat them regularly to ensure that their vision remains fit for safe driving.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.comAnother edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
