A new national survey released in early 2026 reveals that 50 percent of Maryland drivers who need corrective lenses have not had a recent eye checkup, meaning an estimated 1,385,973 motorists are operating vehicles despite acknowledging their vision falls short of optimal levels for safe driving.
Lenspricer.com, a contact lens price comparison platform, conducted the study of 3,017 U.S. drivers to quantify how many knowingly delay eye exams or updates to prescriptions. The findings highlight uncorrected or outdated vision as an under-discussed road safety factor, particularly during winter months with reduced daylight, glare from low sun angles, and longer evening commutes in regions like Southern Maryland.
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Nationwide, 49 percent of drivers needing glasses or contacts reported skipping recent optometrist visits, translating to roughly 75 million people behind the wheel. Maryland ranks near the middle of state-level results, with 50 percent of those requiring correction admitting to no recent checkup—higher than some states but below leaders like Arkansas (64 percent) and Missouri (60 percent).
The survey points to practical barriers driving avoidance. Cost emerged as the top issue, cited by 36 percent of respondents. Inconvenience or busy schedules accounted for 14 percent, while 12 percent believed their vision remained “good enough.” Fear of driving restrictions deterred 8 percent, another 8 percent simply forgot appointments, and 22 percent claimed they never avoid tests.
Responses also revealed risky behaviors. If glasses or contacts were misplaced right before driving, 20 percent said they would proceed anyway, 12 percent would limit to short trips, and 18 percent do not use corrective lenses regularly. Twenty-four percent reported multiple near-misses they attributed to vision issues. Looking ahead, if vision worsened significantly, 6 percent would drive regardless, 14 percent probably would, 42 percent would cut back on driving, and 34 percent would stop entirely.
Rasmus Adeltoft of Lenspricer.com stated: “We tend to think of eyesight as a personal health issue, but the data shows it’s a shared safety issue too. Millions of people are driving with vision they know isn’t good enough, not out of recklessness but because of cost pressures, busy schedules, or simple avoidance. Clear vision is one of the easiest safety wins we have on the road – and one of the most overlooked.”
Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration requires visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye (or both together) and a continuous field of vision of at least 140 degrees for an unrestricted license. Drivers 40 and older must pass a vision screening at every renewal, while those under 40 do so every other renewal. Restricted licenses allow 20/70 acuity in some cases, with field of vision at least 110 degrees. The MVA conducts free screenings or accepts certifications from licensed eye care providers within 24 months of application.
The study underscores broader safety implications in Maryland, where rural roads in Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties often feature narrow shoulders, sharp curves, and wildlife crossings that demand sharp visual perception. Reduced nighttime visibility compounds risks on routes like Route 4 and Route 235, where headlight glare and fog can further challenge drivers with uncorrected issues.
The survey included an infographic breaking down state rankings and national barriers, emphasizing voluntary action over enforcement. Experts note that regular eye exams—recommended annually for those over 60 or with known conditions—can catch gradual changes early, preventing avoidable incidents.