Andy Burnham and Labour are considering changes to eyesight driving rules, which could result in a major rule update. New data suggests millions of individuals could be a safety risk on UK roads.
Labour's road safety strategy
Labour's road safety strategy was published earlier this year, promising to consult on introducing mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over age 70. A consultation was opened, with officials collecting responses from stakeholders until May. The Department for Transport has promised to publish a summary of responses and a Government comment, which could come soon.
Proposed tests for older drivers
The new rules could see older drivers forced to undertake a mandatory eyesight test to stay on the roads, with tests required every three years at renewal.
Alicia Hempstead, car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: “Drivers must be able to read a number plate from 20 meters away, the equivalent of around five parked cars. Breaking this rule could lead to a £1,000 fine, as well as three penalty points.
“Not only are there legal ramifications to not wearing glasses or contact lenses behind the wheel, but there are also financial ones too should you get into an accident, as your car insurance could be invalidated if you do not meet the standards of vision.”
Scale of eyesight issues
If introduced, the new rule would only likely apply to older road users above the age of 70. A new survey by MoneySuperMarket predicts that almost 11 million UK drivers are currently overdue an eye test or haven’t had an exam in the past two years, around 26% of all motorists.
The survey found that one in seven, around 5.5 million road users, have never been for an eye test appointment. Alicia stressed that road users should get their eyes checked at least every two years to stay safe behind the wheel.
Alicia said: “People’s vision can change over time, sometimes without them realising. That’s why it’s important to have an eye test every two years to make sure you still meet the legal standard for driving safely and confidently.”
