Accuracy of recall of the legal number plate testing distance by U.K. drivers

Abstract

A consecutive sample of 100 drivers attending practice for a routine eye examination were asked to specify the legal vision test distance for compliance with U.K. driving requirements. Also recorded were age, gender, vision uncorrected and acuity. The aim of the study was to investigate the accuracy of estimation by drivers and to determine whether there were any age or gender differences. The results show that 97% of the sample were unable to specify the distance printed in the Highway Code and that 41% underestimated the distance as below 60 feet. This figure is discussed in the context of better education of drivers and the potential role this could have in improving road safety.