The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Enugu State has conducted a free eye test for 263 commercial drivers.
The drivers were also lectured on eye care and the need to avoid stimulants that blur the vision.
Sector Commander Imoh Etuk said the initiative was in line with the directive from the corps’ headquarters to ensure an accident-free Eid-el-Kabir.
He said: “We are conducting eye test for drivers because it has come to our knowledge that bad eye sight contributes to most road crashes. Some drive under the illusion of having good sight but the result of this eye test has proved us right that most drivers are suffering from one eye defect or the other.
“We have noted those with eye defects and as part of our mandate, we will ensure they do not drive until they undergo the necessary treatment. Glasses and further treatments recommended by the optometrists will be given to the drivers with eye defects.”
Etuk thanked the Nigeria Optometric Association (NOAESC), Enugu State chapter, for buying into FRSC’s vision of zero tolerance for accidents.
“The exercise is a continuous one that will take place from time to time,” he added.
He advised drivers to undergo eye tests regularly, avoid alcohol before and while driving, and buying fairly used tyres for their vehicles.
Chairman of NOAESC Dr Emmanuel Asogwa said the screening was aimed at determining the visual acuity, coverage level and the colour perception of drivers to reduce accidents.
He said: “Greater numbers of the drivers had colour blindness, short sight, cataract and some only see well with one eye. Having detected these defects, we will make recommendations and direct affected drivers to a specialised clinic for further treatment.
“If these defects are not detected and treated early enough, it will result into more serious eye problems and most importantly, accidents.”
A beneficiary, Paul Okechukwu, said he stopped driving for three months because his sight had deteriorated so badly and he had no money to go for check-up and treatment.
Okechukwu said the outreach will afford him the opportunity to correct his bad vision, return to work and fend for his family.