Warning over sunglasses for drivers after woman loses eyeball

Handsome european man driving his luxury car and looking at the camera.
-Credit: (Image: Getty Images)


Motorists are being cautioned that simple errors while driving could lead to fines up to £1,000 and even result in loss of vision.

A video shared by TikTok user @hannahnoliver warns fellow drivers about the tragic event she experienced when she sported the wrong kind of sunglasses whilst driving, causing her to lose an eye. Experts at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts have confirmed that wearing incorrect glasses while behind the wheel can not only invite hefty fines but also heighten the risk of accidents.

As Britain anticipates a sweltering heatwave, drivers need to be mindful of the perils inherent and the legalities surrounding wearing sunglasses on the road. The bright summer sun glaring off the roads often compels drivers to don their shades, but it's essential they realise the dangers involved and the implications legally.

Specialists at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts have grave advice for motorists: "Drivers can be at high risk when wearing sunglasses that aren't shatter-resistant at the wheel."

The chilling story of Hannah Oliver who lost her eyeball due to her failure to wear shatter-proof glasses during a car crash has raised concerns. The specialists emphasised that sporting shatter-proof shades considerably lessens the chance of injuries in case of a collision, reports the Mirror.

They further cautioned: "Regulations pose the risk of drivers being fined up to £1,000 and three points on their licence if they drive wearing inappropriate eyewear. Due to the fact that tinted glasses and lenses result in restricted vision, you should never wear glasses too dark and you should never wear any form of sunglasses at night."

Drivers are being urged to ensure their sunglasses aren't too dark when driving, with a warning that even minor scratches could lead to a hefty £1,000 fine, as reported by Birmingham Live. Nationwide Vehicle Contracts emphasised: "It is crucial for drivers to wear appropriate sunglasses and ensure they have clear vision on the roads at all times. If glasses are too dark that they prevent drivers from seeing clearly, or make it difficult for you to see traffic signals clearly, then this can result in a £1000 fine."

They added: "Drivers may not be aware that if you were to be involved in a collision on the roads, whilst wearing unsuitable eyewear then you may be liable to prosecution. If your glasses have any scratches or external damages, this goes against the laws set out in the highway code and can result in drivers being liable to prosecution. So drivers should ensure that their glasses are maintained in a safe and good condition."