The UK government is planning a sweeping road safety overhaul, including mandatory eye tests for drivers over 70 and stricter drink-drive limits. However, motoring groups argue the proposals don’t go far enough to protect young drivers.
Ministers are considering compulsory vision tests every three years for drivers aged 70+. Those who fail could lose their licenses. Currently, the UK relies on self-reporting of eyesight issues—a system shared by only two other European countries.
AA president Edmund King called the road safety overhaul “long overdue.” He praised eye tests and lower alcohol limits but criticized the lack of restrictions on new drivers carrying young passengers.
The proposed changes would align England and Wales with Scotland’s stricter 22mcg alcohol limit (down from 35mcg). Police may also get powers to prosecute drug drivers using roadside saliva tests instead of blood tests.
The proposed road safety overhaul also follows growing concerns about uninsured drivers and seatbelt non-compliance. Under the new measures, penalties for both offenses could become significantly harsher, with stricter enforcement through increased roadside checks. However, some road safety advocates argue that without more traffic police officers, even the toughest laws may prove ineffective. “You can change the limits all you want,” said one campaigner, “but if drivers don’t believe they’ll get caught, behavior won’t change.”
Nicholas Lyes of IAM RoadSmart supported the changes but stressed: “These need proper enforcement. We’ve seen drink-driving deaths hit a 13-year high—clearly the old approach isn’t working.”
While welcoming the road safety overhaul, safety campaigners want graduated licensing for new drivers. Research shows young motorists with peer passengers have higher crash risks.
A Labour source noted: “Road deaths haven’t fallen since 2010. At this rate, we’ll keep seeing 1,600 annual fatalities costing the NHS £2bn.” They promised tougher penalties in an autumn strategy.
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