Study: Glaucoma May Increase Traffic Accident Risk

A new study presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology has found that advanced glaucoma could as much as double a driver’s chances of being involved in a serious traffic accident. Researchers believe the results suggest that glaucoma patients should be required to pass a vision test before acquiring or renewing their drivers’ licenses.

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a cluster of eye conditions in which too much pressure on the optical nerve causes vision issues—especially issues of clear peripheral vision. While the cause of the eye disorder is not known, some kinds of glaucoma are genetic. Some people are born with congenial glaucoma, while others develop the issue in one or both eyes later in life. Glaucoma affects about one person in 200, though many people over the age of 80 develop the issue.

Glaucoma and California Traffic Accident Prevention

In the study, 36 people who have been diagnosed with glaucoma and 36 people with normal vision were observed in driving simulators. Those with glaucoma were involved in twice as many simulator accidents, many involving issues with their ability to see road hazards and approaching dangers in their peripheral vision. Although more research needs to be completed, researchers who worked on the study suggested that people with glaucoma should undergo a specific vision test before obtaining a license to drive.

Orange County Car Accident Lawyer

If you have been involved in a car accident which you believe was caused by a driver with vision issues, you may deserve compensation for the consequences of the accident, including injuries and property damage. At Russell & Lazarus, our California car accident attorneys offer free case evaluations to injury victims who want to learn more about their accident and their legal options. Call us today: (949) 851-0222.