The UK's Optical Supplier Association (OSA) members are promoting their advanced diagnostics and lenses to address night-driving challenges as winter sets in. 2026 is also set to see mandatory testing for UK drivers to reduce the likelihood that their vision is not a factor in road safety.
“Glare from high intensity LED and HID headlights is one of the most pressing challenges often creating disabling glare, and not one which is about to disappear,” said OSA Director Julian Wiles.
Ibis Vision, for example, is encouraging UK drivers to check whether their vision meets the legal driving standard. Through its platform, CheckMy.Vision, drivers can take a quick assessment. If results indicate a need for further evaluation, users are directed to book an appointment with their local optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination. For practices looking for greater engagement Ibis Vision is offering a “white label” version of the app which is fully customized, with all referrals directed exclusively to them. (Visit https://www.lite.ibisvision.co.uk/ for more information.)
Grafton Optical is keen for practices to learn more about drivers’ vision screening with the Frey AP-600 Lite Automated Perimeter visual field analyser. Meeting the DVLA’s Esterman 1 and 2 Test standards, it is suitable for assessing drivers’ vision against recognised UK requirements, said Kate Nolan, Grafton Optical Marketing Manager. “The AP600 Lite offers comprehensive features and supports static perimetry with threshold and suprathreshold strategies, enabling fast and flexible testing across a wide range of clinical and occupational settings.”
EssilorLuxottica’s Crizal Drive premium AR coating boasts up to 90% less reflections when driving at night. Citing the estimated 31% of people who avoid night driving, this represents an opportunity for optical practices to address the growing challenge.
Jai Kudo Lenses’ DRIVESENSE freeform lens design includes a night vision zone, with -0.25D of additional power to help counter the effects of night myopia, reducing fatigue and improving comfort during night driving. The lenses are promoted as having a wider visual field, minimizing unwanted astigmatism and edge blur, with quick adaptation for wearers to enjoy smoother eye movement and easy focus whether glancing at the dashboard, checking mirrors or looking at the road ahead.
Meanwhile, Hoya’s EnRoute lenses come with an extensive support package of marketing materials with every angle covered to facilitate conveying the important safety messages of night-time driving. Posters and patient leaflets, email banners, Facebook and Instagram downloads are all readily available along with a support team to guide practices on the most effective marketing. Key messages of the marketing include:
Glare reduction through a specially developed filter that minimises discomfort caused by vehicle headlights and streetlights
Enhanced contrast and clarity, thanks to improved transmission of useful light, helping drivers detect road hazards, pedestrians and traffic signs more easily
Optimized progressive lens designs for dynamic visual tasks, ensuring sharper focus and smoother transitions between viewing distances
OSA's Julian Wiles adds, “Eye care practitioners need to educate themselves and to learn why LED lighting is different. If a patient complains about glare the answer is ‘we have a lens for that’."
