At the end of the month, as the nights get darker earlier, police will be running Operation Dark Night looking for vehicles with lighting defects, cyclists running with no lighting at all and drivers who can’t see the road properly.
From 27 October to 9 November, officers will be specifically targeting vehicles in a defective condition, especially those with lights out, as well as cyclists who ride without the correct bike lighting.
Vehicle drivers – regardless of age – may be asked to take a roadside eyesight test.
By law, UK car drivers must be able to read a vehicle number plate from 20 metres away (about five car lengths). This legal standard helps ensure that drivers can spot hazards, pedestrians, and cyclists in good time.
If you can’t meet this requirement, you must not drive – and doing so could put you and others at serious risk.
Checking your eyesight regularly (and keeping glasses or contact lenses up to date if you need them) is just as important as making sure your vehicle is roadworthy.
Drivers who cannot meet the standard must not drive, and are legally required to notify the DVLA. Importantly, any driver of any age may be asked to take an eyesight test if the DVLA, police, or medical professionals raise concerns.
The aim is simple: to keep everyone safe.
Being visible on the road is vital – working headlights, brake lights, and bike lights ensure you can be seen, and give other road users time to react. These small checks can be the difference between staying safe and being involved in a collision.
TC Matt Harvey, North Yorkshire Police Road Safety Partnership & Problem Solving Officer, said:
“As the evenings draw in and visibility on our roads decreases, Operation Dark Night is a timely reminder of the importance of being seen and staying safe. Whether you’re driving a car or cycling, working lights and clear vision are essential – not optional.
“Officers will be out across North Yorkshire and York checking vehicles and cyclists, and conducting roadside eyesight tests to help prevent avoidable collisions.
“These checks aren’t about catching people out, they’re about protecting lives. A few minutes to check your lights or your eyesight could make all the difference.”
