Older drivers may soon be facing a string of new regulations and assessments if they wish to remain behind the wheel. A set of new safety measures are being introduced when the government's Road Safety Strategy takes effect. The suggested framework will have far-reaching consequences affecting vehicle manufacturers, town planners and motorists alike.
Among the key recommendations within the strategy is the introduction of compulsory vision examinations for drivers aged over 70, alongside potential mental acuity assessments for senior motorists. The strategy states: "The government is consulting on introducing mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over age 70 and will develop options for cognitive testing for older drivers. These measures aim to reduce deaths and injuries involving older drivers, without unnecessarily restricting their mobility and personal freedom."
With Britain's ageing demographic, there are increasing numbers of senior drivers on our highways. Whilst the strategy acknowledges the freedom that driving offers this demographic, it cautioned that challenges such as deteriorating sight, mental function and growing physical vulnerability could endanger all road users.
From 2012 onwards, licences held by people over 70 have nearly doubled from 3.9 million to 6.2 million based on DVLA figures. The Older Drivers Forum observed: "No one wants unsafe drivers on the road, and regular vision checks can actually help people continue driving for longer by identifying issues early and enabling timely treatment."
When undergoing these vision examinations, a driving licence will only be revoked if a person's sight no longer satisfies the legal requirements for safe motoring. Those aged over 60 already qualify for complimentary NHS-funded eye tests throughout England.
Elderly drivers with specific medical conditions may also have to deal with mental assessments in future to retain their licences. This aims to highlight the significance of notifying the DVLA about any reportable health issues.
These are currently accessible via services like Driving Mobility, which offers tailored guidance, vehicle modification suggestions and comprehensive DVLA reports, all designed to help motorists remain safely on the roads for as long as feasible. No legal age limit exists requiring drivers to surrender their licences however, over 70s must renew their licence every three years.
Should you decide to stop driving or receive medical advice to do so, you must notify the DVLA and return your licence. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated in the strategy's foreword: "Bereaved families don't need sympathy, they deserve action. This strategy, the first in over a decade, shows a government that's not just listening, but leading.
"Our vision is clear: to ensure that people can travel safely on our roads however they choose. This strategy is not just a document; it is a call to action for government, local authorities, road safety groups, emergency services and the public. Together, we can build a safer future for all road users."
Additional suggested reforms within the strategy encompass tougher drink-driving thresholds, a mandatory three or six-month preparation period for novice drivers prior to sitting their practical examination, and a National Work-Related Road Safety Charter for companies requiring employees to drive or ride on their behalf.