Cheshire Police will carry out roadside eyesight checks as part of a national campaign reminding drivers to ensure they are fit to drive.

Operation Insight runs from 26 October to 8 November, with officers screening motorists' vision and raising awareness of road safety.

Drivers will be asked to read a vehicle registration plate from 20 metres away, around five car lengths, while wearing any glasses or contact lenses they normally use when driving.

National figures suggest around 3,000 people are seriously injured each year in collisions involving drivers or riders with uncorrected or defective eyesight.

A further 18 people died on UK roads in 2025 as a result of vision-related factors.

Head of Roads and Crime for Cheshire Constabulary, Chief Inspector Cameron Taylor, said changes in eyesight could happen gradually without people realising their vision had deteriorated.

He said: "Good eyesight is one of the most important requirements for safe driving yet changes in vision can happen so gradually that people may not realise their sight has deteriorated.

"Operation Insight is about encouraging all motorists to take responsibility for checking that their eyesight meets the legal standard required for driving.

"While some changes in eyesight become more common as we age, vision can change at any stage of life. That's why this campaign is aimed at all drivers."

Under the law, motorists must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres and meet the minimum eyesight standards for driving.

Anyone who needs corrective lenses must wear them behind the wheel.

Officers stressed the campaign was not aimed at any particular age group, but highlighted the importance of regular eye tests as people get older.

Research suggests drivers aged 70 and over are more likely to be killed or seriously injured when involved in an injury collision than younger motorists.

Under legislation known as Cassie's Law, drivers who fail a roadside eyesight test and are considered unsafe to drive may have their licence revoked following a referral to the DVLA.

Motorists are encouraged to have their eyes tested at least every two years, even if they have not noticed any changes in their vision.

Chief Inspector Taylor added: "The vast majority of drivers are responsible road users.

"By keeping on top of our eyesight and overall fitness to drive, we can all play our part in making Cheshire's roads safer."

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