Mandatory eye tests and new drink-drive limits: what the UK’s road safety shake-up means for you

Driving is about to get much safer thanks to the UK government’s new Road Safety Strategy. It’s the first update to the strategy in over a decade, and aims for a 65% cut in deaths and serious injuries on the roads by 2035, with an even more stretching target of 70% for children under 16.

The plan includes new consultations on a minimum learning period for learner drivers, mandatory eye tests for older drivers, and lowering the drink-drive limit – all designed to help prevent collisions.

What changes could we see then? Here’s everything you need to know.

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What changes are on the horizon?

Over the last decade, the UK has fallen behind when it comes to road safety. Twenty two European countries have reduced road deaths more successfully than Britain, pushing the UK from third to fourth place in European rankings.

This strategy sets out a fresh approach to get progress moving again. It’s based on the internationally recognised Safe System approach, which starts from a simple idea: while people will always make mistakes, deaths and serious injuries on our roads are not inevitable.

Instead of putting all the responsibility on individual drivers, the Safe System approach looks at the whole picture. It brings together better road design, safer vehicles, effective enforcement and better education, so that everyone using the road is better protected.

Here’s what to expect from the strategy:

Lower alcohol limits and roadside drug tests

The legal drink-drive limit could drop from 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath to 22 micrograms, matching Scotland. Under the new rules, even a single pint could put you over the limit. Police could also use roadside drug tests to catch drug-driving more quickly, and there’s a consultation to explore the use of alcohol interlock devices.

Eye and cognitive tests for older drivers

Drivers aged 70 and over may need regular eye tests every three years, and possibly cognitive checks too. The goal is to keep older drivers safe while preserving their independence.

Tougher penalties for uninsured or careless drivers

Fines for driving without insurance could rise to £600, while not wearing a seatbelt might now land you penalty points for the first time. The police will also be cracking down on vehicles without a valid MOT.

Tackling illegal plates

New measures will target the growing problem of illegal number plates, including ‘ghost’ plates designed to fool camera systems.

Use of more tech

The strategy also mandates 18 new vehicle safety technologies, including autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. The government hopes both drivers and road users will benefit from access to new tech and that it will encourage manufacturers to meet the same requirements across Europe.

Protecting vulnerable road users

The strategy really hones in on vulnerable road users, tackling some big differences in safety. Motorcyclists are only 1% of the traffic, but they make up 21% of road deaths, while kids in the most deprived areas are four times more likely to be injured as pedestrians. To address this, the strategy looks at reforming motorcycle training, testing, and licensing, and backing trials for biker safety on rural roads.

A safer commute

Around one-third of road traffic fatalities involve people driving to and from work. To tackle this, the government is piloting a National Work-Related Road Safety Charter – a national benchmark for employers whose staff use any vehicle, from HGVs and vans to cars, motorbikes, and cycles, for their job. The goal is to help public and private businesses reduce work-related road risks through good practice, accountability, and compliance with existing legislation.

Why these changes matter

Older drivers are involved in a surprisingly high number of road accidents. In 2024, nearly a quarter of drivers killed on UK roads were 70 or older, and 12% of all collision casualties involved older drivers, according to official government data.

Ministers say the aim is to make roads safer without taking away independence. Local transport minister Lilian Greenwood explained: “Driving can be very important for older people’s wellbeing, but we must make sure everyone stays safe on the roads.”

The new proposals come in response to alarming figures: over 1,600 people died and almost 28,000 were seriously injured on UK roads in 2024 alone.

Experts say the rules are long overdue. They could save lives by targeting repeat drink-drivers and helping older drivers stay safe – but enforcement will be key.

Edmund King, director of the AA, welcomed the move, saying: “This is a positively radical reframing of road safety, which is long overdue. We commend the government for its wide ranging and ambitious strategy and ambitious targets, which we hope will save the lives of thousands of people.”

Getting everyone home safe and sound requires strong teamwork. To make this strategy work, the government, local councils, businesses, road safety experts, emergency services, and the public will need to all be on the same page and working together.

RAC road safety spokesperson, Rod Dennis, said: “It’s important to remember that the ultimate success of any new or updated penalties or laws will depend on awareness among drivers and enforcement.

“But undoubtedly, this strategy is a real chance to give the whole topic of road safety the focus and public attention it deserves. What we need now is for it to quickly evolve into a set of concrete actions that make the roads safer for everyone.”

Top tips for staying safe

Here are some tips on how to stay safe and prepare for these changes:

• Book regular eye tests, especially if you’re over 70. Good eyesight is key for spotting hazards and driving safely.
• Always wear your seatbelt and make sure your insurance is up to date to avoid fines and stay protected.
• Keep an eye on your own health and fitness to drive. If you notice any vision problems or feel less confident behind the wheel, talk to your doctor or take a refresher driving course.
• Never drive under the influence of drink or drugs. If you’re unsure how much alcohol you can have, it’s always safest to avoid it before driving. Police have quick ways to test you, so it’s just not worth the risk.

These steps could save lives and make roads safer, but also remember that enforcement is key – so expect police to be more active in checking for these issues.

Read more about the government’s Road Safety Strategy here.

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