Drivers with glasses could be fined £1,000 for breaking Highway Code rule

A motoring expert has warned that drivers face being fined up to £1,000 if they fail to comply with a Highway Code rule. Road users who require prescription glasses must wear them when driving to comply with Rule 92 of the code.

Failing to do so could put themselves and other road users at risk. This is even more of an issue during winter months when visibility is likely to be reduced due to bad weather.

A spokesperson for Motor Match warned that drivers could be putting "lives at risk" if they fail to wear their glasses or contact lenses when behind the wheel. They added: "A significant number of drivers may underestimate just how vital it is to wear their prescription glasses when driving.

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"The Highway Code exists for the safety of everyone on the road and clear vision is, of course, fundamental to safe driving. Failing to comply with Rule 92, which requires drivers to wear glasses or contact lenses if needed, can lead to severe penalties and puts lives at risk.

"Not wearing your glasses could result in a fine of up to £1,000 and penalty points on your licence. However, the more pressing concern is safety. Driving with uncorrected vision increases the risk of accidents, particularly as it affects reaction times and the ability to spot hazards, such as pedestrians, cyclists, or changes in the road ahead."

They continued: "As winter approaches, drivers need to be even more alert to potential dangers. Poor weather conditions, reduced daylight, and slippery road surfaces mean that reaction times and sharp vision are more important than ever. Wearing your glasses ensures you can fully see the road and any hazards, maximising safety for everyone."

The spokesperson also advised: “It’s not just about complying with the law – it’s about being prepared for any situation. We always recommend that drivers keep a spare pair of glasses in the car. This simple step means you’ll never find yourself in a position where you’re caught without them, particularly on longer journeys or in poor driving conditions.

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"Poor vision while driving not only makes it harder to see what's ahead but also affects your judgement of distances and speeds, which could prove catastrophic in an emergency. Regular eye tests and wearing glasses (when prescribed) are non-negotiable for keeping the roads safe for everyone.”

"Another key point is that driving with impaired vision doesn’t just risk a fine and points on your licence – it could escalate to much more serious consequences if an accident occurs. In cases of dangerous driving caused by poor eyesight, drivers could face an unlimited fine, a driving ban, or even a custodial sentence if the incident is severe."