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Cataracts can begin to develop around the age of 40 in some individuals. However, the cloudiness and vision changes associated with cataracts often become increasingly noticeable with age. This could present a problem for older drivers when it comes to car insurance. Here’s what you need to know about vehicle insurance if you end up having surgery for cataracts.
You Must Meet DMV Vision Requirements
As long as you are able to meet the basic Department of Motor Vehicles vision requirements after your cataract surgery, you should be just fine with your auto insurance in Chula Vista. In each state, the DMV typically has certain minimum vision requirements. You’ll need to meet these requirements post-surgery to keep your license valid.
The specific DMV requirements for vision vary by state. In California, you’ll need to have at least 20/40 vision in both eyes or 20/70 in one eye and 20/40 in the other. If you live in California and you’re able to meet this requirement after cataract surgery, you should be good insurance-wise.
Older Drivers Often Enjoy Reduced Car Insurance Rates
You may be understandably concerned about the possible impact on your car insurance rates after surgery. It’s worth pointing out many older drivers enjoy extra savings on car insurance by the time cataract surgery becomes a possibility. This is because older drivers are generally considered to be more responsible drivers than younger ones.
Insurance Rates May Change Slightly
While it’s not likely your insurance will change too much post-surgery, there may be some minor adjustments if your vision isn’t fully restored. This could also be the case if there are some complications with your eye surgery, although this is rare given today’s advanced technology.
According to Healthline.com, the intraocular lens inserted during cataract surgery may shift, which could affect your vision enough to alter your insurance rates after your procedure if your vision is still impaired to some degree. However, complications of this nature only occur in 0.2 to 3 percent of all cataract procedures performed in the United States.
Take Vision Tests before & after Your Surgery
This is likely something your eye doctor or surgeon will have you do anyway. The results from the two tests can be used to demonstrate to your insurance company that your cataract surgery was successful. If your vision significantly improves post-surgery, you may even be able to renew your policy at a discounted rate. This is more likely to be the case if you also have a good driving record.
Take Driving Tests Pre-Surgery & Post-Surgery as Well
Wait until you’ve fully recovered from the cataract surgery to take the second driving test. This way, the results will be more accurate. If the comparison of the two test results shows noticeable improvements in your driving abilities, this could help you maintain or even lower your insurance rates.
Drivers who are searching for reliable, affordable auto insurance should reach out to the experienced professionals at Altra Insurance Services. In addition to auto coverage, we offer a variety of insurance products, including business, homeowners, and motorcycle insurance for Chula Vista, National City & residents can call one of our friendly agents today at (619) 404-6311 for a free quote.