With a rainy period predicted for many parts of Australia over the coming months, Optometrists are urging drivers to ensure their eye test schedules and glasses prescriptions are up to date amidst research suggesting low visibility can increase the risk of an accident by at least 30 per cent.
Sadly, the Australian road toll stands around 10 per cent higher than the same time last year, with late June and July busy times on the roads as a result of school holidays. This makes ensuring your myopia or other visual issues and eye conditions are addressed before getting behind the wheel an urgent priority.
Bupa Optical Optometrist Karen Makin said factors like rain, windscreen wipers, fog and poor light compound the negative impact myopia can have on your vision while driving.
"Driving in wintery conditions can be hard enough without having to do so with untreated myopia or an outdated prescription in your glasses.
"Having quality sunglasses on hand is also important whenever you drive. With rain sitting on the surface of the road, the sun glare can be intensified, which is something many people don't think about during the colder months," said Karen.
According to the Centre for Eye Research Australia, around 6.3 million Aussies currently live with Myopia which requires regular monitoring to manage any changes.
"It's recommended that people get their eyes tested every 2 years, or as recommended by their optometrist or health care practitioner. This will help ensure any eye concerns are addressed.
"Through our Artificial Intelligence (AI) enabled EyeInspect and Microvascular Health Assessment tools, we can also detect early signs of diabetes, heart disease and a range of other general health problems and provide relevant referrals to doctors as required," Karen said.
To date in 2025, Bupa Optical, has conducted over 17,000 Microvascular Health Assessments which help patients understand whether they are at risk of developing a cardiovascular disease within the next 5 years through simple non-invasive photos of the eyes.
"Whether it's keeping you safe on the road, the worksite or in your general day-to-day activities… there is no doubt a quick eye-test can be a lifesaving activity," Karen said.
