The UK government has launched its first major road safety strategy in over a decade, setting out a vision that could transform driving laws and affect millions of motorists across the country. The ambitious plan, spearheaded by the Department for Transport (DfT), aims to slash deaths and serious injuries on Britain's roads by 65 per cent by the year 2035.
Key Proposals in the Road Safety Blueprint
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander presented the strategy, stating it marks a decisive turning point after years of stalled progress. "Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy that devastates families and communities," Alexander said. The strategy introduces several wide-ranging consultations that could lead to significant changes within the next decade.
Currently, approximately four people lose their lives on British roads every single day, with thousands more suffering serious injuries annually. A new road safety board, to be chaired by Ms Alexander, will oversee the implementation of the proposed measures.
Older Drivers Face Mandatory Testing
One of the most notable proposals targets older motorists. The DfT is consulting on the introduction of mandatory eyesight and cognitive tests for drivers aged over 70. These assessments would determine their fitness to continue driving safely.
This move responds to a growing demographic trend. Official statistics show that over-70s now represent 14.7 per cent of all drivers, a notable increase from around 11 per cent a decade ago. The government states the proposed tests are designed to "protect all road users" as the population of older drivers expands.
Drink-Drive Limit Set for Historic Reduction
In a landmark shift, the government will also consult on lowering the drink-drive limit in England and Wales, which has remained static since 1967. At 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, the current limit is the highest in Europe.
The consultation follows sobering data from 2023, where one in six road fatalities involved drink driving. The review will also explore the use of preventative technology, such as alcohol interlock devices. These devices, fitted to a vehicle's ignition, prevent it from starting if the driver fails a breathalyser test.
Such interlocks could be mandated as a condition for convicted drink-drive offenders to regain their licenses. Furthermore, new powers may allow police to suspend licenses immediately for those suspected of drink or drug driving offences.
Learner Drivers and Vehicle Technology
The strategy also addresses new drivers. It proposes a mandatory minimum learning period of either three or six months between passing the theory test and taking the practical driving test. This aims to ensure learner drivers' skills are fully developed before they drive independently.
Interestingly, due to ongoing backlogs from the Covid-19 pandemic, learners are already waiting around six months for a test slot, a situation expected to persist until at least 2027.
On the vehicle front, the DfT consultation covers making 18 new safety technologies mandatory. These include autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance systems. This measure seeks to ensure all road users benefit from cutting-edge safety tech and aligns UK manufacturing standards with Europe.
Finally, the strategy pledges new measures to tackle illegal number plates, uninsured drivers, and vehicles operating without a valid MOT certificate.
This comprehensive package of proposals represents the most significant potential shake-up of UK driving laws in a generation, with public consultation being the next critical step before any changes become law.
