The UK government is considering introducing mandatory eyesight tests for older motorists, a move prompted by new research revealing that hundreds of thousands of drivers in England have cataracts that could impair their ability to drive safely.
The Cataract Challenge on UK Roads
Startling new figures indicate that approximately 600,000 people living in England have cataracts. This condition can make driving, particularly on dark rural roads or when dealing with the glare of oncoming headlights, significantly more challenging. The research, highlighted in November 2025, shows that a substantial 43 to 46 per cent of cataract patients report difficulties with driving before they undergo corrective surgery.
A Personal Wake-Up Call
The issue has been brought into sharp focus by the experience of Doug Laver, who was involved in a traffic accident due to his deteriorating vision. He found that his cataracts made it exceptionally hard to handle dark rural road conditions and the intense glare from other vehicles' headlights.
"For the first time in my life, I started to have issues with migraines," Mr Laver said. "There were big challenges with light sensitivity and, as the work day wore on, I'd have to take breaks from my computer. Fundamentally, it became really difficult for me to do my job."
He described the driving incident as his personal "wake-up call" and urged others not to delay treatment. "My advice to anyone putting off cataract treatment is don't wait until it impacts your life or puts you in danger," he advised. "It's very straightforward and the benefits are massive."
Official Response and Safety Recommendations
In response to these concerns, the Labour Party government is exploring measures to enhance road safety, with mandatory eye tests for elderly motorists being a key proposal.
Dr Alexander Silvester, Chief Medical Officer at SpaMedica, emphasised that Mr Laver's story serves as an "important reminder" for all drivers to ensure their eyesight meets the required standard for safe driving. Optometrists recommend that adults should have an eyesight test at an opticians every two years, or more frequently if advised.
While a Department for Transport spokesperson stated, "we do not have plans to change eyesight requirements for driving," they confirmed that the department "continue(s) to explore ways to improve road safety." This leaves the door open for potential policy changes as the evidence for action grows.
