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Joe Pike, a politics investigations correspondent, reported a potential overhaul of driving laws in England and Wales that could see motorists over 70 facing a ban from the roads if they fail compulsory eye tests. Other proposed changes include aligning the drink-driving limit with Scotland’s laws and introducing penalty points for passengers not wearing seatbelts. These measures come in response to a coroner’s findings that the UK’s licensing system is among the most lenient in Europe, following four deaths caused by drivers with failing eyesight.
The government is expected to publish a new road safety strategy in the upcoming autumn, aiming to address the shortcomings of the current safety messaging that is perceived as ineffective. A government source highlighted the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need to reduce the alarming number of deaths and injuries resulting from road accidents, which impose a significant burden on the healthcare system annually. The source emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing tougher penalties for lawbreakers, safeguarding road users, and restoring order to the roads through the upcoming Road Safety Strategy.
In response to a report from HM Senior Coroner for Lancashire, Dr. James Adeley, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander was urged to take action to prevent future fatalities attributed to inadequate visual standards among drivers. Dr. Adeley’s report criticized the reliance on self-reporting of visual conditions affecting driving ability in the UK, highlighting the need for more rigorous enforcement measures. As a result, the government is considering implementing mandatory eye tests every three years for drivers over 70, as part of efforts to enhance road safety.
Edmund King, president of the AA, defended older drivers over 70, noting that they are generally safe on the roads. However, he acknowledged the importance of compulsory eye tests as a minimal sacrifice for ensuring safety. The government is also contemplating additional measures such as testing for conditions like dementia and imposing stricter rules for drink-driving, including lowering the drink-drive limit to match that of Scotland. The proposed reforms aim to address the spike in alcohol-related fatalities over the past four years and facilitate easier prosecution of drug-driving suspects through roadside saliva tests
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