Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Government Plans Consultation on Eye Tests for Drivers 70+ in Road Safety Overhaul

The forthcoming strategy targets steep casualty reductions by 2035 following coroner warnings about eyesight standards.

Overview

  • Ministers will consult on making eyesight checks mandatory for motorists aged 70 and over at each three-year licence renewal in England and Wales.
  • Officials are exploring options for cognitive screening of older drivers, though this work is at an early stage and not part of the current consultation.
  • The strategy, due Wednesday, is expected to propose cutting the drink‑drive limit to 22 micrograms per 100ml of breath to match Scotland, subject to consultation.
  • Plans include tougher action on uninsured driving, with proposals to double fixed penalties to £600 and increase licence points.
  • Possible changes to seatbelt enforcement are under consideration, alongside data showing about a quarter of car occupant deaths involved no seatbelt and that 24% of drivers killed in 2024 were 70 or older.