Tougher road safety laws are on the horizon – here’s what you need to know

Drivers in England and Wales could soon face stricter road safety rules, including a lower drink-drive limit and compulsory eyesight tests for motorists over 70, under proposals being considered by the government.

Ministers want to bring England and Wales in line with Scotland’s stricter rules, meaning drivers will need to be more careful about how much they drink before getting behind the wheel.

Currently, the blood alcohol limit for drink-driving in England and Wales is 0.08%, while Scotland’s is lower at 0.05%. This means the legal limit for alcohol in your breath could be reduced from 35 micrograms per 100ml to 22 micrograms.

For older drivers, the government is thinking about introducing compulsory eye tests every three years once you turn 70. If you fail, you could be banned from driving. This is because, unlike many other European countries, the UK currently asks drivers to report eyesight problems themselves – a system some say isn’t enough to keep roads safe.

There are also plans to crack down on uninsured driving and people who don’t wear seatbelts properly, along with quicker ways for police to catch drug-driving using roadside saliva tests instead of slower blood tests.

Some motorists have already voiced opinions on changes to UK driving laws. Nearly three in five (57%) believe drivers returning after a long break should retake their practical test, according to car insurance experts at Uswitch.

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These proposals come in response to the worrying number of road deaths and serious injuries each year. Last year alone saw over 1,600 fatalities and nearly 28,000 serious injuries on UK roads.

Experts say these changes are “much overdue” and could help save lives, especially by targeting repeat drink-drivers and supporting older drivers to stay safe. However, some warn that to really make a difference, the police need more resources to enforce the new laws effectively.

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 drugs. If you’re unsure how much alcohol you can have, it’s always safest to avoid it before driving. Police will have quick ways to test you, so it’s just not worth the risk.

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

The government plans to share the new road safety plans this autumn, and they’ll ask for everyone’s thoughts before making any final decisions.

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