Older drivers will now have to undergo regular eye examinations as part of a significant new initiative to enhance road safety. Individuals over 70 years old will be required to have their vision checked every three years, replacing the current practice of self-reporting, which has faced criticism from coroners.
This measure is a key component of a new road safety strategy, touted as the most substantial overhaul in many years. The strategy also includes suggestions to align the drink-driving limit in England with Scotland, as well as introducing penalty points for individuals not wearing seatbelts.
Additionally, authorities are contemplating cognitive assessments for older drivers, although these plans are not part of the current consultation as further research is needed to determine the appropriate tests.
Unlike many other 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 decline in self-reporting of major conditions like diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
The introduction of mandatory eye examinations is aimed at enhancing the road safety of older drivers while still allowing them to maintain their mobility and independence. Edmund King, President of the AA, praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of eye tests for older drivers to mitigate the higher risk of accidents as age advances.
In other aspects of the strategy set to be unveiled soon, the drink-drive limit in England and Wales is anticipated to be reduced to match the current level in Scotland. The strategy also explores the feasibility of using saliva tests, rather than blood tests, for detecting drug-driving, with proposed doubled fines for uninsured drivers.
Despite calls from road safety experts, the government is unlikely to impose restrictions on new drivers under 21 transporting peers shortly after passing their tests. The latest statistics show that in 2024, there were 1,633 fatalities and nearly 28,000 serious injuries in traffic incidents in Britain.
The overarching goal of the strategy is to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries by 65% by 2035, with a specific aim of a 70% reduction for children under 16. A significant proportion of car driver fatalities in 2024 involved individuals aged 70 or older, emphasizing the importance of these safety measures.