Seeing clearly is essential to driving safely. Every decision we make while operating our vehicle relates to what we can see. From recognizing stop signs and red lights, to observing lane markings and exit ramps, to avoiding pedestrians, bicyclists and other motorists, our eyes are our guides. While glasses and contact lenses enable many drivers with less than perfect vision to pass driving tests and obtain their licenses, the same corrective eyewear can actually decrease their ability to drive safely in some situations.

Consider inclement weather in the form of fog or rain. Not only is reduced visibility a factor in 42 percent of all vehicle crashes according to one source, but the risk of collision increases by 50 to 100 percent during precipitation. While rain and fog reduces visibility to some degree for all drivers, those relying on corrective eyewear face a challenge in addition to the moisture outside their vehicle –the moisture on their lenses.

Dry weather can make it more difficult for contact lens wearers to drive safely. Whether cold or warm, dry weather often leads to dry eyes. Dry eyes burn, itch and sometimes water excessively. And excessive blinking and rubbing means these drivers’ eyes are not on the road where they belong.

Blind spots also pose a danger while driving. While we all have blind spots and should look over our shoulder when changing lanes, those wearing glasses may have extremely blurry peripheral vision as well. They are less likely to see the raccoon lumbering onto the roadway, the kid on the bicycle darting into the intersection, or the stranded motorist walking along the roadside.

Night vision can also be an issue for drivers relying on corrective eyewear. Glare from oncoming headlights can seem worse in glasses and contacts. Halos and starbursts may appear around other light sources. This can make it difficult for them to observe lane markings or navigate their way through unfamiliar streets. 

Fortunately, LASIK can eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, reducing the difficulty of driving in inclement weather, dealing with blind spots and driving at night. In fact, most patients report they feel safer driving after laser vision correction surgery. No longer distracted by their glasses or contacts, they can more clearly see objects in the periphery and read street signs ahead. And while some experience night driving complications for a few months post-surgery, most of these complications resolve within the first year.

While the visual outcome of LASIK varies by patient, most achieve clear, fully functional vision after surgery. Clinical studies have shown that 100 percent of nearsighted patients and more than 95 percent of all patients can pass a driving test without glasses or contact lenses. As much as 98 percent of mild to moderate nearsighted patients are able to see 20/20 or better, unassisted, after the LASIK procedure.

If you’d like to improve your driving safety, consider LASIK.  Call Eisner Laser Center today to schedule your complimentary consultation.