### New Road Safety Measures in the UK: Mandatory Eye Tests for Drivers Over 70 The UK government is considering significant reforms to road safety, particularly targeting older drivers. As part of a new strategy aimed at reducing road deaths and injuries, mandatory eye tests for drivers aged 70 and above could be introduced. This initiative is driven by statistics indicating that a substantial percentage of fatal accidents involve older drivers, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures. The proposed changes are expected to require these drivers to undergo eye examinations every three years, with the potential for cognitive assessments also being discussed. The overarching goal is to improve road safety and reduce fatalities by 65% by 2035 [https://themanc.com/news/mandatory-eye-tests-could-be-introduced-for-drivers-over-70-in-the-uk]. ### Structure of the Proposed Road Safety Strategy 1. **Mandatory Eye Tests**: - Drivers over 70 may be required to take eye tests every three years to ensure they meet vision standards [https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/motoring/motoring-news/compulsory-new-rule-coming-drivers-33182038]. 2. **Cognitive Assessments**: - Alongside eye tests, cognitive assessments for older drivers are being considered to further ensure road safety [https://www.saferhighways.co.uk/post/government-may-introduce-mandatory-eye-tests-for-drivers-over-70]. 3. **Stricter Drink-Driving Laws**: - The government is also planning to revise the drink-drive limit, marking a significant shift in road laws aimed at enhancing safety [https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/uk-news/uk-drink-drive-limit-change-33180187]. 4. **Implementation Timeline**: - These measures are part of a broader strategy expected to be rolled out in the near future, with specific timelines yet to be confirmed [https://www.mylondon.news/news/uk-world-news/eye-tests-drivers-over-70-33172813]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Statistics on Older Drivers**: - In 2024, 24% of all car drivers killed in accidents were aged 70 or older, underscoring the urgency of these proposed measures [https://www.iwradio.co.uk/news-post/government-considers-new-driving-rules-for-over-70s-to-improve-road-safety]. - **Projected Impact**: - The government aims to reduce road deaths and serious injuries by 65% by 2035, with a particular focus on protecting vulnerable road users, including older drivers [https://www.mixvale.com.br/2026/01/06/uk-government-implements-mandatory-triennial-eye-tests-for-motorists-aged-70-plus]. ### Conclusion: A Comprehensive Approach to Road Safety In summary, the UK government's proposed road safety strategy includes mandatory eye tests for drivers over 70, cognitive assessments, and stricter drink-driving laws. These measures are designed to address the rising number of accidents involving older drivers and aim to significantly reduce road fatalities by 2035. The key points are as follows: 1. **Mandatory eye tests every three years for drivers over 70** to ensure they meet necessary vision standards. 2. **Potential cognitive assessments** to further evaluate the driving capabilities of older motorists. 3. **Revisions to drink-driving laws** to enhance overall road safety. 4. **Aiming for a 65% reduction in road deaths and serious injuries by 2035**, with a focus on protecting vulnerable road users. These initiatives reflect a proactive approach to improving road safety and ensuring that older drivers can continue to drive safely while maintaining their independence [https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/uk-news/drivers-over-70-face-bans-33174156].