Eye tests for drivers over 70 and tighter alcohol limits could be introduced
Ministers are considering introducing compulsory eye tests for drivers over 70 and tightening drink-driving rules as part of new road safety plans, according to reports.
Cognitive tests for older drivers are also among the measures the government will consult as part of its road safety strategy to be published on Wednesday.
Meanwhile resources said Times Ministers are also considering tightening alcohol limits for drivers, reducing the limit from 35 micrograms to 22 micrograms per 100ml of breath.
This would match the limit in Scotland, making even a single pint risky for drivers.
The strategy aims to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads by 65 per cent by 2035, and by 70 per cent for children under 16.
Approximately 24 percent of all vehicle drivers killed in 2024 were 70 years of age or older, and 12 percent of all casualties in car crashes were older drivers.
Recommendations for mandatory eye exams and cognitive testing are among moves to reduce deaths and injuries without unnecessarily restricting older drivers’ mobility and personal freedom.
Local transport minister Lilian Greenwood said: “We know driving can be crucial for older people’s wellbeing and helping them live independently, but we also need to make sure everyone is safe on our roads.
“As the country’s elderly population grows, our plans in the first road safety strategy in over a decade will protect civil liberties by taking action to save lives where possible.”
The strategy could also see uninsured drivers face higher fines and harsher penalties, with the aim of making fixed penalty penalties significantly higher than average premium costs.
Under the proposed changes, the preliminary penalty could be doubled to £600.
It was reported last year that the strategy could include plans to see those who do not wear seat belts receive penalty points for the first time.
Responding to the plans, AA chief executive Edmund King said: “The move to make eye tests compulsory for older drivers is clearly welcome, particularly as the likelihood of an accident increases as someone gets over 70, peaking significantly at 86 over 80, and vision is often a factor of concern.
“Eye tests are already free for people over 60 and healthcare professionals recommend they do so every two years, given they can help diagnose other underlying conditions.”
