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Female motorists considering fashion more than safety

Monday, 18 Aug 2008 15:24
Sheila's Wheels' research has shown that a lot of women are breaking the law with regards to in-car eyewear
Millions of women are putting their own safety and that of other road users at risk every day by refusing to wear glasses.

This is according to a new 'Vanity and Vision' poll conducted by Sheila's Wheels car insurance.

The results show that 27 per cent of female motorists should wear glasses while driving, but fail to do so. Ten per cent of women say they feel embarassed by wearing glasses for driving.

Just over one in ten (11 per cent) have admitted to being involved in an accident or near-miss in the last year because of not wearing glasses.

On average, such accidents cost £981 on average in repair and associated bills.

A substantial percentage of women (34 per cent) said they feel 'self-conscious' in glasses, while 23 per cent have chosen fashionable sunglasses over prescription lenses at least once while driving.

Of course, not wearing corrective lenses (either glasses or contacts) is not only putting others at risk but is also breaking the law.

Over half of the women polled admitted to slowing down to read road signs, while a further 42 per cent said they relied on passengers to read signs for them.

"A ‘numberplate test’ is carried out officially in all driving tests but it’s ultimately the driver’s responsibilty to ensure they can pass this test at any time," commented Kelly Plahay, director of the Eyecare Trust.

"If you fail to meet these visual standards, you are breaking the law every time you get behind the wheel.
"With so many fashionable glasses, prescription sunglasses and different types of contact lenses on the market, there’s no excuse for having poor vision whilst driving.

"If you do need to wear glasses to meet the visual standards, make sure you have a pair in the car at all times. Failing to wear them is not only illegal, but it could cause potential danger to yourself and other road users."

"Today’s modern woman wants to look good at all times and driving behind the wheel is no exception," added Jacky Brown at Sheila's Wheels car insurance.

"We are urging all women to get regular eye examinations, always wear glasses whilst driving if they need to, and invest in a pair of fashionable prescription sunglasses so they can look fantastic and drive safely when the sun shines. Having good vision is crucial for a safe journey."

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