The Government has also proposed a new test for drivers over a certain age
Transport minister Lilian Greenwood answered questions about a new road safety strategy (Image: Parliament TV)
The Government has provided an update about a proposed test every 10 years for all drivers. Transport ministers appeared in the Commons this week (January 8) to take questions from MPs about proposed new road safety rules.
The new Road Safety Strategy proposes major changes to driving laws, such as making learner drivers have a minimum of three to six months learning period between their theory and practical tests. Another change which is being considered is introducing mandatory eyesight testing for drivers aged over 70, as well as cognitive tests for older drivers.
At present, motorists must be able to read a number plate at a distance of 20 metres, but you do not have to provide any proof that you can do this. Leicester South MP Shockat Adam asked a question relating to this proposed new test, saying such testing should be expanded further.
He said: “The UK is one of the only countries in Europe that does not have mandatory sight tests until people have to renew their licence at the age of 70, so somebody could pass a driving test at 17 or 18, then not have an eye test until they are 70 years old. Does the minister agree that people should have a sight test every time their driving licence is renewed, which is every 10 years, to ensure that they are safe on the road?”
Transport minister Lilian Greenwood responded on behalf of the Government. She said: “No one should be driving on our roads whose eyesight does not meet the required standard. We have chosen to consult on eye tests for those over 70, but it would be good advice for everyone to have their eyes tested on a regular basis.”
280 crashes a year
Mr Adam also asked what action the Government is taking around the safety issue of glare from headlights. He cited RAC figures indicating there are 280 crashes every year caused by glare from headlights.
In response, Ms Greenwood said: “We have undertaken research on headlamp glare. I know that this is a growing problem, and I certainly recognise it as a driver myself.
“We are going to consider the outputs of the research that we already have and do further work, in addition to looking internationally at work on vehicle standards, but I absolutely want to take further action on headlamp glare.”
Other proposed measures in the Road Safety Strategy include reducing the alcohol limit for learner drivers and recently qualified drivers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland down from 80mg per 100ml of blood to around 20mg. The limit for all other drivers would be reduced to around 50mg, which is the current limit in Scotland.
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