### Government Launches Ambitious Road Safety Strategy to Reduce Fatalities The UK government has unveiled its first comprehensive road safety strategy in over a decade, aiming for a **65% reduction** in deaths and serious injuries on the roads by **2035**. This initiative, announced on **January 7, 2026**, emphasizes the importance of partnerships and data-driven policies to enhance road safety across Great Britain. The strategy addresses critical issues such as drink driving, the training of young drivers, and the introduction of mandatory eye tests for older motorists, reflecting a proactive approach to saving lives on the roads [https://emergencyservicestimes.com/2026/01/08/government-publishes-first-road-safety-strategy-in-a-decade]. ### Key Components of the Road Safety Strategy 1. **Reduction Targets**: The strategy sets an ambitious goal of cutting road fatalities and serious injuries by **65%** by **2035**, with a specific target of **70%** for children under 16 [https://www.saferhighways.co.uk/post/uk-government-launches-ambitious-road-safety-strategy-to-save-thousands-of-lives]. 2. **Drink-Driving Measures**: A proposal to lower the legal drink-drive limit is included, aimed at reducing alcohol-related accidents [https://metro.co.uk/2026/01/07/drink-drive-limit-set-cut-road-safety-strategy-26110123]. 3. **Driver Training Enhancements**: The strategy includes improved training protocols for young drivers and consultations on a minimum learning period for learner drivers [https://www.wirenn.com/post/thousands-of-lives-to-be-saved-under-bold-new-road-safety-strategy]. 4. **Eye Tests for Older Drivers**: Mandatory eye tests for older motorists are proposed to ensure that all drivers meet safety standards [https://www.yourharlow.com/2026/01/07/thousands-of-lives-to-be-saved-under-bold-new-road-safety-strategy]. 5. **Vehicle Safety Technology**: The strategy encourages the adoption of new vehicle safety technologies to further reduce the risk of accidents [https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/368648/new-road-safety-strategy-aims-cut-uk-casualty-numbers-half]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Current Statistics**: Approximately **four people die** on Britain's roads every day, highlighting the urgent need for effective safety measures [https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/368648/new-road-safety-strategy-aims-cut-uk-casualty-numbers-half]. - **Projected Impact**: The government estimates that thousands of lives could be saved through the implementation of this strategy, particularly by addressing the main causes of road collisions [https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/national-strategy-make-roads-safer-33182054]. - **Public Support**: The strategy has been welcomed by various stakeholders, who describe it as "long overdue" and essential for creating safer communities [https://www.erewashsound.com/news/thousands-of-lives-to-be-saved-under-bold-new-road-safety-strategy]. ### Conclusion: A Comprehensive Approach to Road Safety The UK government's new road safety strategy represents a **bold and necessary step** towards reducing road fatalities and serious injuries. The key components of this strategy include: 1. **Ambitious reduction targets** of 65% by 2035. 2. **Stricter regulations** on drink driving and enhanced training for young drivers. 3. **Mandatory eye tests** for older drivers to ensure road safety. 4. **Encouragement of new vehicle safety technologies** to mitigate risks. By addressing these critical areas, the government aims to create a safer driving environment for all road users, ultimately saving thousands of lives [https://www.healthcare-management.uk/government-aims-save-thousands-lives-road-safety-strategy].