24 Million Motorists Overlook Regular Eyetests

Over half of the 40 million motorists(i) in the UK have not had an eye test in over four years, leaving them vulnerable to having their licence withdrawn if their vision does not meet the stringent requirements of the DVLA.

A survey of 2,000 Swinton car insurance customers found the following results:

- 28% not visited an optician for between four and six years

- 16% between six and eight years

- 10% between eight and ten years

- 6% over 10 years.

The DVLA states that all drivers must be able to read a number plate from a distance of 20 metres, using glasses if necessary. If a driver fails to do this due to poor eyesight, they can have their licence revoked immediately.

Steve Chelton, insurer development manager for Swinton motor insurance said: "The tough financial climate means routine examinations such as eyetests are being neglected. Although there is no legal obligation to have regular eyetests, for your own safety and others on the road we strongly recommend that all drivers have their eyes tested at least every two years. It is essential that drivers declare any problems with their eyesight immediately to the DVLA.

"Drivers should also be aware that if you need glasses, it is a criminal offence not to wear them while driving and they could risk prosecution or disqualification for failing to do so."

The survey was commissioned prior to Swinton launching its new Health and Dental Cash Plan. The plan costs from Pounds Sterling 9.95 per month and includes up to Pounds Sterling 90 per year towards both optical and dental treatments, including check-ups and contact lenses.

(i) 40,172,956 licence holders in the UK according the DVLA

About Swinton

- With 580 branches nationwide Swinton is the UK's largest high street insurance retailer

- Unlike many other companies in the financial services industry, Swinton is committed to keeping its branches open for business, and part of the community

- Swinton provides a one-stop-shop for the insurance and related needs of its clients, offering home, car, caravan, business, holiday, motorbike and even classic car insurance

- With a dedicated team of advisors on hand at every branch to search a panel of insurers to offer quality cover at competitive rates

Contacts: Manchester PR agency SKV Communications Michael Travers or Anoushka Foster 0161 838 7770 anoushka.foster@skvcommunications.co.uk

SOURCE: Swinton Insurance