Labour is looking into a major overhaul of UK motoring rules with new eye checks, drink-driving limits and tough seatbelt penalties among the updates.
Tougher drink-drive limits are also being considered (Image: Getty)
Older drivers could be hit with a series of new rules (Image: Getty)
Four new driving rules are set to come into force across the UK as part of a major Labour crackdown in motoring. The headline announcement for over 70s is the introduction of new eyesight testing rules to monitor the safety of elderly road users.
However, three new announcements affecting everything from alcohol drink-drive limits to seatbelt rules and insured drivers were also listed. These will affect all road users regardless of their age, but over 70s are set to also feel the impact of the updates. Express.co.uk looks at what is set to change in one of the biggest motoring overhauls in years.
Mandatory eye tests for over 70s could soon be rolled out (Image: Getty)
Eyesight testing rule
This is the big one for elderly drivers with new mandatory eyesight rules looking set to be introduced. The UK is only one of three European countries to rely on motorists self-reporting any issues when renewing their driving licence.
Although details have not been fleshed out, the rule means older individuals may be required to sit through an eye test every three years. Optometrists who notice any visual impairments should then notify the DVLA, with motorists likely to have a new licence blocked.
Drink-drive limits
Officials are understood to be considering a drastic reduction to the drink-drive limits in England and Wales, bringing the policy into line with Scotland and the rest of Europe. The current cut-off sits at 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath but this could be slashed to just 22 micrograms.
New roadside saliva tests could also be rolled out as evidence, helping police prosecute drivers by the side of the road instead of having to wait for a blood test.
Not wearing seatbelts
Motorists caught not wearing a seatbelt are already set to face a £100 bill with penalties rising to £500 in extreme cases. But under the current rules, motorists are not issued any penalty points on their driving licence for the simple offence.
This looks likely to change with plans to issue points as well as financial penalties to road users in a hefty blow.
Tough penalties for uninsured drivers
Officials could increase the penalties dished out to those traveling with no valid car insurance policy as part of a major shake-up. Rules state drivers could be hit with a £300 fixed fine and six licence points for driving without a policy.
However, this could increase with uninsured drivers now facing unlimited fines and even the threat of being disqualified from driving.
