The UK government is planning a major road safety overhaul, including compulsory eye tests for drivers over 70 and stricter drink driving limits. These changes follow concerns that current laws are too lenient, contributing to preventable deaths. Under the new road safety overhaul, drivers aged 70 and above must pass an eye test every three years when renewing their licence. Currently, the UK relies on self reporting for vision problems, unlike most European nations.
A coroner recently called the UK’s system the “laxest in Europe” after several fatal crashes involving drivers with poor eyesight. For example, four elderly pedestrians died in separate incidents where motorists had untreated vision issues. Edmund King, AA president, acknowledged that older drivers are generally safe but said mandatory tests are a “small price to pay” for safety. However, he noted that young drivers still account for most serious crashes.
Another key part of the road safety overhaul is lowering the legal alcohol limit in England and Wales. The new limit would match Scotland’s stricter rules—22 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath, down from 35. Government data shows a sharp rise in alcohol related road deaths in recent years. Ministers argue that current warnings are ineffective and harsher penalties are needed.
The reforms may also include:
- Penalty points for unbelted passengers
- Roadside drug tests replacing blood tests
- Stricter checks for dementia and other medical conditions
Justice Minister Alex Davies-Jones called this the biggest update to driving laws in decades. Relatives of crash victims have long pushed for stricter rules. In one case, an 81 year old driver with a history of eye disease killed a pedestrian. Another motorist lied about his cataracts before causing a fatal collision.
Currently, over-70s must renew their licence every three years but only self-report vision issues. The new road safety overhaul aims to close this dangerous loophole. With road deaths costing the NHS £2bn yearly, ministers insist these changes will save lives. The full strategy will be unveiled this autumn after further consultations.
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