Cataract surgery is very suitable for drivers once cataracts approach or breach driving standards, and can make night and daytime driving safer and more comfortable.
Indicators that surgery will help
Driving often highlights cataract symptoms earlier than other activities.
- Difficulty reading road signs or number plates despite new glasses
- Glare, halos, or starbursts from headlights
- Struggling with low‑contrast or poor‑weather conditions
- Vision close to or below legal driving requirements
- Desire to maintain independence and safety on the road
Driving around the time of surgery
Temporary adjustments are needed while each eye heals.
- No driving immediately after surgery; vision and comfort must be checked first
- Formal acuity check at follow‑up before resuming driving
- Starting with short, familiar routes in good daylight
- Delaying challenging night or motorway driving until fully confident
- Being willing to use glasses if a small prescription remains
