Older drivers in the UK could soon face compulsory eye examinations in order to retain their driving licences, as part of a forthcoming overhaul of the government’s road safety strategy. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, speaking to the Commons Transport Select Committee, said she was “open to considering” such a measure in response to growing concerns about vision-related accidents.
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The announcement follows a Prevention of Future Deaths report issued by HM Senior Coroner for Lancashire, Dr James Adeley. The report detailed the deaths of four individuals killed by motorists whose eyesight had significantly deteriorated. In each case, opticians had advised the drivers to notify the relevant authorities of their visual impairment, but the warnings were not heeded. Alexander described the findings as “very distressing for the families of the victims” and acknowledged the need to review the current approach.
At present, UK drivers are not subject to routine health or competency checks once they have secured a licence, regardless of age. While motorists are legally required to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if they develop a condition affecting their ability to drive, the system relies on self-reporting. Dr Adeley criticised this as dangerously lenient, stating: “Self-reporting of visual conditions permits drivers to lie about their current driving status… and avoid warnings not to drive.” He expressed concern that individuals often disregard professional advice and continue driving without notifying the DVLA.
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The coroner’s remarks were made during the inquests of Marie Cunningham, 79, Grace Foulds, 85, Peter Westwell, 80, and Anne Ferguson, 75 — all of whom died in incidents involving drivers with known eyesight issues. When asked for a timeline, Alexander confirmed that the government’s new road safety strategy — the first in a decade — is expected to be published later this year. Further information on possible changes to medical assessments for older drivers is anticipated as part of that announcement.
