A road trip checklist just for your eyes
Summer has arrived and for many, it’s time to step out into the fresh air and start exploring our wonderful country again. As motorists start travelling long distances, its important that your eyes are just as ready as you are.
According to an international study by the Vision Impact Institute, 59% of road accidents can be attributed to poor eyesight. In addition, 23% of drivers worldwide have untreated eye conditions and are a potential danger to themselves and other road users.
It’s time to start checking off the road trip checklist…for your eyes:
- Ensure that your prescription lenses are up-to-date. Today, more than 10% of South Africans fail their drivers’ license test because their eyesight does not meet the requirements.
- It’s always a good idea to keep a second pair of glasses in your car – you never know when you may need them.
- If you have a separate pair of glasses with tinted and non-tinted lenses, always keep both within easy reach.
How does caffeine affect your vision?
Many people enjoy a hot cup of coffee first thing in the morning but they are not aware of the effects it has on their eyes. In a report by The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, it was found that people who consumed more than three cups of coffee a day have an increased risk of glaucoma and vision loss. Glaucoma is an eye condition that damages the eye’s optic nerve and is one of the main causes of low vision and blindness.
It’s important to have your sight tested if you think there may be a problem. Keep your eyes healthy and keep on driving.
