Over 70s Drivers Face Mandatory Eye Tests

Get ready for some significant changes on Britain's roads, especially if you're over 70. The government is set to introduce mandatory eye tests every three years for older drivers, a crucial move aimed at boosting road safety and bringing the UK in line with many European neighbours. This isn't just about vision checks; it's part of a broader new road safety strategy expected to be unveiled this Wednesday. The comprehensive plan also includes proposals to lower England's drink-driving limit, bringing it in line with Scotland's stricter rules, which have been in place for some time. Additionally, drivers could soon face penalty points for failing to wear a seatbelt, a measure that underscores a renewed focus on fundamental safety practices that protect everyone in a vehicle. These upcoming changes have been on the cards for a while, with initial reports surfacing last August. They come after serious concerns were repeatedly raised about the effectiveness of current eyesight standards for drivers. Last year, a coroner's inquest into the tragic deaths of four individuals, killed by drivers with severely impaired vision, concluded that the enforcement of visual standards on our roads was alarmingly "ineffective and unsafe." HM Senior Coroner for Lancashire, Dr James Adeley, didn't mince words when he reviewed the system. He highlighted that the UK was one of only three nations globally that relied solely on drivers to self-report any visual conditions affecting their ability to drive safely. This reliance on personal honesty, rather than regular checks, led Dr Adeley to describe Britain's licensing system as "the laxest in Europe." For years, many other countries have had more stringent requirements, ensuring drivers maintain adequate vision throughout their driving careers. This new strategy appears to be a direct response to such criticisms, aiming to close a significant safety gap. By introducing regular, mandatory eye tests for older drivers, and tightening other key rules, the government hopes to prevent future tragedies and ensure that everyone behind the wheel meets essential safety requirements. It's a clear signal that the era of relying purely on self-declaration for critical driving abilities might be drawing to a close, paving the way for safer journeys and greater peace of mind for all road users, from pedestrians to passengers and fellow drivers. --- Managing your business finances? TaxAce provides smart online accountancy services for UK businesses with flexible monthly plans. Image and reporting: https://www.bbc.co.uk | Read original article