Austrian drivers show strong emotional ties to cars; Germany outlines vision rules for motorists

A market research survey commissioned by Helvetia Austria reveals that 69 % of Austrian respondents are proud of their vehicle and view it as more than a means of transport – it serves as a personal retreat, a space for intimate conversations and even a status symbol. The same study shows that 92 % consider themselves safe drivers, 57 % believe they drive better than their partner, and 80 % dislike others treating their car poorly. About 28 % use the car deliberately for solitude, while half would not allow anyone else to drive it. Safety habits are high, with 93 % always fastening seat belts, though 22 % admit to occasionally driving in summer with flip‑flops or barefoot. Werner Panhauser, Helvetia Austria’s head of sales and marketing, said, “Die Ergebnisse unserer aktuellen Studie zeigen, wie emotional Österreicher:innen mit ihrem Auto verbunden sind.”

In Germany, the Fahrerlaubnis‑Verordnung (FeV) sets strict visual‑acuity requirements for motorists. Drivers must have a central daytime visual acuity of at least 0.7 in both eyes, or 0.5 in the better eye, and a horizontal field of view of at least 120 degrees. Those with severe visual impairment (under 30 % vision) are legally classified as sight‑disabled and cannot obtain a licence, while individuals with monocular vision may be approved after an ophthalmic examination. The regulations emphasize that driving eligibility is determined by meeting these objective visual standards rather than the diagnosis alone.