Traffic police have criticised motorists who risk lives by driving with poor eyesight.
During a month-long campaign, Bocking road policing unit officers have been left shocked at the number of drivers who failed simple eyesight tests
Seven people out of 400 tested were taken off roads across the Braintree and Uttlesford districts.
Insp Mark Harman, of the unit, said: "Although seven out of the 400-odd drivers may sound minuscule to some, it's not to us. If people cannot read a number plate in bright sunshine at 20 metres, what chance do they stand of seeing a child about to run out in the road? Without good eyesight, you can't drive safely."
During the campaign:
One driver was sent home after failing to read a registration number plate from just EIGHT metres away. He will now be prosecuted for dangerous driving with defective eyesight
One motorist travelling to Stansted Airport was forced to swap with his wife, who was his passenger, when he failed a roadside test
An officer, who was so horrified with the near blindness of one motorist, actually drove the man home.
Published Friday July 2, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article