Clear vision is a priceless asset, particularly when it comes to it keeping you safe.
With the cold and frosty months right around the corner, icy roads combined with dazzling winter sun and shorter days means that drivers need to be extra vigilant.
To help motorists stay sharp behind the wheel, Sarah Freel, optometrist director at Specsavers in Rutherglen, is sharing her top tips to ensure your sights remain firmly on the road this winter.
Keep your specs in check with a winter eye test
Sarah said: “Keeping up to date with your eye tests is so important, particularly if you’re planning on driving during the winter months.
“We recommend getting your eyes checked every two years if you’re aged between 16 and 60, however, you may be required to attend more regular check-ups if you have more complex eye care needs.
“Remember, most people in Scotland are eligible for an NHS funded eye examination, so we’d encourage drivers to be on the safe side and pop in for a free check-up, so their prescriptions are as up to date as possible this winter.”
Don’t let winter sun and rainy roads blindside you
Sarah continued: “Glare is one of the most common causes of road accidents, however, there are steps drivers can take to help reduce the risk of bright sunlight and light reflection on the roads.
“Polarised sunglasses are a great way to minimise the impact caused by bright lights, particularly from vehicle headlights and on wet road surfaces. What’s more, they also offer 100% UV protection, improve contrast and help ease the strain on your eyes.
“We have a fantastic selection of polarised sunglasses at our Rutherglen store, with frames starting at £15 and polarising from £60.”
Avoid a frosty stare by keeping your eyes moist
“We all know the air can get dry and crisp during the winter – especially here in Scotland. However, it can have a negative impact on our eyes, and sometimes our driving habits can make them worse,” added Sarah.
“One thing drivers can do to minimise irritation is to angle their heating vents away from their face, which prevents hot air directly blowing into their eyes and drying them out.
“Motorists also have a tendency to blink less while they are behind the wheel, as they are concentrating on the road, so make sure you’re blinking regularly to refresh the surface of your eyes with fluid.
“If you suffer from dry eyes, our friendly team in store are on-hand to discuss treatment options that may help.
Brighten your winter drive by seeing clearly in the dark
“Low light levels typically cause the pupils in your eyes to become larger, which can make it harder to focus. This can be particularly dangerous during wet weather, especially as vehicle headlights reflect on water lying on the surface of the road.
“If possible, look sightly to the left-hand-side of the road or focus on the white lines marking the edge of the road to avoid your eyes becoming startled by bright lights.
“If you wear glasses or contact lenses, it’s important to make sure your prescription is up to date, so you’re prepared for driving in the dark. If you’re unsure, make an appointment with one of our optometrists, who will be happy to help.”
Specsavers’ Rutherglen store is located at 9 Stonelaw Road and is open from 9am until 6pm, Monday to Saturday, and from 11am until 5pm every Sunday.
To book an appointment, call the store directly on 0141 647 5588 or visit the store’s website.