Visual Function Test among Commercial Drivers in Tarauni Local Government Area Kano State

Background: Good vision is a critical sensory component for safe driving, as it accounts for approximately 95% of the information needed during vehicular operation. This study aimed to assess various visual functions specifically distance and near visual acuity, color vision, contrast sensitivity, stereopsis, and peripheral visual fields and their association with the occurrence of road traffic accidents among commercial drivers in Tarauni Local Government Area, Kano State, Nigeria. Method: A total of 250 male commercial drivers, aged 20 to 65 years with at least 2 years of driving experience, were selected from four major motor parks. Data collection involved both structured interviews and comprehensive ophthalmic examinations. The questionnaire assessed awareness of visual licensing requirements, difficulties seeing road signs, glare discomfort during night driving, and history of road traffic accidents. Findings: Results indicated that 75% of drivers had good visual acuity, while 11.6% reported previous involvement in road traffic accidents. 22.8% experienced discomfort due to glare at night. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, color vision, stereopsis, and near vision across different age groups. Notably, only 10% of participants were aware that vision testing is part of the licensing requirements. Conclusion: The findings underscore the impact of age-related visual deterioration on driving performance and highlight the need for mandatory vision assessments, especially for older drivers. Routine ocular evaluations should be incorporated into driver licensing protocols to enhance road safety.