Key Highlights
- Lorry driver sues Specsavers for £200k over failed eye test causing depression
- Francis Hodibert claims Specsavers’ negligence led to his professional and personal distress
- Hodibert’s legal action cites alleged inaccurate results from Specsavers leading to DVLA revocation of HGV licence
- Specsavers is set to defend the lawsuit, with Michael O’Neill describing the results as “inaccurate”
Francis Hodibert, a licensed lorry driver from Slough, Berkshire, has filed a £200,000 lawsuit against Specsavers, alleging that a botched eye test not only cost him his livelihood but also plunged him into severe depression. The crux of the case lies in the alleged negligence by the optician, which, according to Hodibert, led directly to his professional and personal distress.
Background
In 2022, Hodibert underwent two HGV driver’s eye tests at a Specsavers branch. Following these tests, he was informed that he had failed the visual field examination, leading to the DVLA revoking his HGV licence. The impact of this decision on Hodibert’s life cannot be understated; he now fears he may never work as an HGV driver again.
The Accusations
Michael O’Neill, Hodibert’s barrister, has accused Specsavers staff of “carrying out their field of vision tests so as to produce false results” and submitting inaccurate reports. These alleged inaccuracies have led to serious emotional damage for Hodibert, who has developed a worsening mixed depression and anxiety disorder.
Specsavers’ Defense
In court, Specsavers is set to defend the lawsuit by denying all accusations of negligence. The company’s spokesperson stated that they will contest the claims and continue their operations as usual. However, Michael O’Neill argues that Hodibert’s condition—his inability to work as an HGV driver or at all—is a direct result of the alleged inaccuracies from Specsavers.
“The obtaining and reporting of the said inaccurate results and the consequent revocation of the claimant’s HGV licence were caused by the negligence of the defendant, its servants or agents,” stated O’Neill. “Because of this, Mr Hodibert has suffered personal injury, loss and damage.”
The Legal Battle Ahead
Specsavers’ defense will likely involve rigorous cross-examination of both Hodibert’s claims and the evidence provided by the optician’s staff. The case highlights the critical role that accurate medical assessments play in professional lives, especially for industries such as HGV driving where clear vision is paramount.
The legal battle is set to unfold over the coming months, with Hodibert seeking significant compensation not just for his lost income but also for the severe emotional and mental health issues he has faced. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for both Specsavers and the wider optometry industry regarding their standards and practices.
