4,000 drivers lose licences due to vision problems

THE number of drivers who have lost their driving licence due to failing eyesight has more than doubled in the last four years.

Those whose licence was revoked totalled 1,597 in 2006 but rose to 4,009 last year, according to figures obtained by a freedom of information request.

The Co-operative Motor Group, which obtained the figures, said the law demanded any driver with concerns over their eyesight should see a doctor or eye specialist and – if they are advised to do so – must then inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency if they have a condition that makes it dangerous to drive. Failure to do so can incur a fine of up to £1,000, and invalidate driver insurance.

Group managing director Tony Guest said: “We would urge anybody who has concerns over their vision to contact a specialist.”