Older drivers will now have to undergo regular vision tests as part of a significant new initiative to enhance road safety. Individuals over the age of 70 will be required to have their eyes checked every three years, replacing the current self-reporting system that has faced criticism from coroners.
This measure is a key component of a comprehensive road safety strategy, described as the most substantial overhaul in many years. The strategy also includes suggestions to align the drink-driving limit in England with Scotland’s standards and to issue penalty points to individuals not wearing seatbelts.
Authorities are also contemplating cognitive assessments for older drivers, although specific plans are not yet included in the consultation as further research is needed to determine the appropriate testing methods.
Unlike many European countries, the UK relies on individuals self-reporting health conditions to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). A recent coroner’s report highlighted a significant drop in self-reporting of major conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Mandatory eye examinations are anticipated to enhance the road safety of older drivers while preserving their mobility and personal autonomy. Edmund King, President of the AA, expressed support for the mandatory eye tests for older drivers, emphasizing the increased risk of accidents for individuals over 70 and particularly over 80, with eyesight often being a contributing factor.
In other aspects of the strategy set to be released soon, the drink-drive limit in England and Wales is expected to be lowered to match Scotland’s current level, potentially affecting individuals even after consuming just one pint. Additionally, proposals include enabling law enforcement to utilize saliva tests for drug-driving checks and doubling fines for uninsured drivers.
The government is not likely to impose restrictions on new drivers under 21 regarding carrying same-age passengers in the near future, despite calls from road safety experts. In 2024, 1,633 fatalities and nearly 28,000 severe injuries occurred on British roads, with figures remaining relatively stable following a substantial decline from 2000 to 2010.
Incidents of fatalities due to drink-driving have risen over the past decade, reaching a 13-year peak in 2022, raising concerns about the efficacy of existing road safety measures. The strategic goal is to reduce road deaths and serious injuries by 65% by 2035, with a specific focus on achieving a 70% decrease for children under 16.
Referring to the road strategy plans last summer, a source from the Labour party remarked on the historical trends in road safety outcomes, emphasizing the need for improved measures to address the persistently high number of road-related casualties.