Drivers aged 70 and over are set to face new “fitness to drive” assessments under a Road Safety Strategy announced by the Labour government. These measures include mandatory eyesight tests and the consideration of cognitive evaluations to ensure safer driving among older motorists.
Lilian Greenwood, Minister for Local Transport, emphasized the importance of road safety in a foreword accompanying the announcement. She stated, “Road safety is fundamental to everything this government stands for. Safer roads support economic growth, promote greener travel, reduce NHS pressures, and guarantee safe journeys for all.”
Despite the UK having some of the safest roads globally, road fatalities remain a serious concern. In 2024, there were 1,224 cases of older car drivers killed or seriously injured, a slight 3% decrease from 2023 but a 7% increase compared to 2014.
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Greenwood highlighted the need to reassess the current self-declaration process at licence renewal for older drivers, especially in light of coroners' recommendations following fatal incidents. She also acknowledged the challenges posed by an ageing population, which is more prone to vision-related health issues such as glaucoma and macular degeneration.
The proposed consultation aims to introduce mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over 70, addressing natural age-related vision decline. While initially focused on vision, future measures may include cognitive assessments to better evaluate the overall fitness of older drivers.
Minister Greenwood underscored the importance of supporting older drivers, recognizing that holding a driving licence often represents independence and freedom. However, she stressed the need to ensure that drivers can continue to operate vehicles safely for as long as their health permits.
In summary, the Labour government’s initiative seeks to balance the independence of older citizens with the imperative of maintaining road safety through enhanced medical and cognitive screening.