Problems Driving? 3 Signs Vision Problems Might Be Interfering With Your Driving

by Brent Woods

It's never easy admitting that you have vision problems, especially if you've always had perfect vision. Unfortunately, vision problems tend to come with age. If you've been putting off having your vision tested, you should stop and schedule an appointment. You might not realize this, but your vision problems could be affecting the way you drive, which could be putting your life—and the lives of others—in jeopardy. Here are three signs that your vision problems are interfering with your ability to drive.

Sudden Onset of Night Blindness

If you used to be able to drive at night without problems, but lately it's become more difficult, you should have your vision tested. Night blindness can interfere with your ability to drive safely once the sun goes down. Some of the signs of night blindness include blurry vision, inability to differentiate between objects, and objects appearing closer—or farther away—than they actually are.

Another troublesome symptom of night blindness involves street lights. Night blindness can create the effect of bright flashes of light or halos around normal street lights. Unfortunately, those bright flashes of lights can make it difficult to see the road at night, which can put you, and others, in danger.

Difficulty Reading Street Signs

If you're unable to read street signs that you used to be able to see clearly, your vision may have deteriorated. When you're driving, you need to be able to see the signs around you. If you can't, you could be a danger to yourself and others, especially if you're unable to see caution signs such as stop signs. If you're unable to read street signs clearly, you should limit your driving until you can have your vision tested.

Driving Tires Your Eyes Out

If you have vision problems, your eyes may get tired out more quickly. That's because your eyes need to strain in order to see clearly. Unfortunately, tired eyes can make it difficult to drive, especially for long distances. If you notice that your eyes are tiring out faster when you drive, or if you have a difficult time keeping your eyes open, you should have your vision tested as soon as possible.

If you've noticed problems with your vision while you're driving, you should schedule an appointment with an optometrist at a location such as Advanced  Eye Care &  Surgery Center. With proper treatment, you'll be able to get back to driving. For other information on vision-related driving problems, be sure to speak to your optometrist as soon as possible.


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