A NEW law that will impact drivers who want to renew their licenses in a US state will come into force in months.
Transport chiefs in Kentucky are rolling out a new measure instructing drivers to undergo an eye test before they renew their license.
In the state, licenses are valid for either four or eight years depending on the options Americans choose.
Drivers will have to complete an eye exam before renewing their license under the new law, according to the state’s Transportation Cabinet.
The test only takes one minute and officials do not think the exam will take longer when the law comes into force.
Drivers can go to an eye specialist of their choice and will get a signed form once they complete the test.
They have been told to bring the document when arriving at a license registration office to update their records.
Alternatively, the test can be completed at a licensing regional office for free.
If the driver fails the screening test, they are required to undergo another examination.
Drivers who need to wear corrective lenses will have this noted on their driving license records.
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The law, which stems from a bill introduced in 2021, is to be rolled out to improve road safety.
“Driving is a privilege many of us enjoy and this best practice is one way we look out for each other on the road to make our highways safer for everyone,” Governor Andy Beshear said.
Kentucky will not be the anomaly in enforcing drivers to undergo eye tests when renewing their licenses.
States such as Ohio and Missouri have similar measures for drivers.
Drivers in New York must pass a vision test when they want to renew their license.
Eye exams can either be taken at the Department of Motor Vehicles office or by an optician.
The test remains valid for 12 months, but some examiners may rule that the exam expires after six months.
CRACKING DOWN
The license law in Kentucky is not the only driving measure states will be rolling out in the next few months.
In Colorado , it is set to become illegal to use cell phones when driving.
Drivers will only be allowed to make calls when using hands-free devices, as reported by Colorado Public Radio .
Road users that fall foul of the new law will have to pay a $75 fine for a first-time punishment.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis has welcomed the measure and believes it will improve road safety.
What defines ‘distracted driving’?
Distracted driving claims lives every year nationwide, and it’s 100% preventable
However, many drivers assume that distracted driving is limited to using their phone while behind the wheel.
While using a phone to text, call, send emails, scroll through or post to social media, and make or accept video calls is illegal nationwide, other behaviors can be just as distracting – and dangerous.
Other behaviors that distract drivers:
- Adjusting the radio or GPS
- Applying makeup in visor mirrors
- Eating and drinking, as it takes one or both hands from the wheel
- Reaching into the backseat to grab personal items
- Rummaging through a purse, glove box, or center console
Thankfully, driving distracted can be prevented. Here are some proven tactics to stay focused:
- Put your phone in “Do Not Disturb” or “Driving Mode,” as it temporarily pauses notifications, but will push a call or text through if urgent
- If distraction is difficult to avoid, put the phone in a safe place, like a purse, glove box, center console, or back seat
- If a text message or call needs to be sent or made, pull over and park
- Give the phone to a passenger when applicable to send a text or make a call
- Be a role model – practicing safe driving in front of impressionable passengers helps pass along safe behaviors
