NHS restrictions on cataract surgery are leaving many people unsafe to drive warn top ophthalmologists. Javad Moayedi, an ophthalmic surgeon who has performed in excess of 30,000 lens surgeries and assesses patients for their driving ability on a daily basis, says the NHS requirement can leave as many as 25% of cataract patients with inadequate vision for driving.

“There are many other issues at play when driving – not just the number plate distance check but problems with peripheral vision and glare, particularly as the cataract develops. Visual impairment is a far greater factor in road traffic accidents than many of us realise, I am sure,” said Javad, who operates at Optimax in Newton Abbot.

“The development of a cataract is normally a gradual process and most people are not aware of the full extent in the deterioration in their vision unless they have their eyes examined regularly by an optometrist. The implications are very serious. Insurance is likely to be invalid if you are found to be driving with defective vision and are involved in a road accident.”