A new survey has revealed that many motorists, when driving in sunshine, concentrate on looking good rather than staying safe.

The survey of 1,000 drivers, commissioned by GetLenses, showed that under a third own prescription sunglasses while 53% admitted not owning a pair and using normal sunglasses to drive in, despite drivers, who wear glasses or corrective lenses being required to wear them when driving.

The poll also showed the damage that drivers can do to their eyes with 36% not knowing if the sunglasses they use have UV filters, while bright sunshine is recognised as being a potential hazard to motorists. Recent figures from the Department for Transport for 2010 showed a 20% increase in the number of people killed or seriously injured in the summer months compared to the winter, so GetLenses, says that the research findings should act as a warning to short-sighted motorists.

Its resident optometrist Brendan O'Brien said: "The research is extremely worrying. Safety should never be compromised for style, especially when it comes to driving. We don't blame drivers, as often many people don't even consider prescription sunglasses."

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/road-safety/8652032/Safety-takes-a-back-seat-to-style-for-British-drivers.html