The company’s screening tests on visitors to its Drive Safe roadshows were carried out over a period of eight months, with the results proving even more alarming than previous studies, which had estimated the number of drivers with substandard vision to be one in six.

In addition to showing that one in three people tested at the roadshows would fail an eyesight test, the research also showed that two out of five had not had an eye examination within the recommended two-year timeframe. In addition, more than four out of five people with substandard vision were unaware of their failing sight and claimed their vision was good enough to drive safely.

With one in three company car drivers likely to fail to meet the legal eyesight requirements, Specsavers has highlighted that employers too are at serious risk if they do not have a comprehensive eyecare policy in place.

Laura Butler, corporate account manager at Specsavers Corporate Eyecare, said: ‘In the UK, drivers have to pass the rudimentary “number plate test” at the time of their practical driving test but for most drivers their vision is not then re-evaluated until the age of 70. Employers making the simple but crucial step of introducing regular eye examinations for all drivers are likely to gain on many levels. While the existing legislation remains, employers can play an important part in ensuring the safety of their staff and all road users.’

The company is also continuing its campaign with the national road safety charity Brake for legislation to be introduced that makes eye examinations compulsory as part of the driving test.