Britain is set to implement stricter regulations concerning drink driving, seatbelt usage, and eye tests in a significant overhaul of road safety measures. The government aims to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries by 65% overall and by 70% for individuals under 16 by the year 2035.
As part of the comprehensive plan, drivers who neglect to wear seatbelts or ensure children are safely belted will receive penalty points on their licenses. Additionally, there is a possibility of reducing the drink-driving limit, with convicted offenders potentially being required to use alcohol level testing devices in their vehicles before driving.
The new strategy includes the introduction of 18 advanced vehicle safety technologies, such as autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and lane-keeping assistance. Meera Naran MBE, a road safety advocate who tragically lost her son in a smart motorway accident, has long advocated for legislation mandating AEB in all vehicles, known as Dev’s Law.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized the importance of prioritizing road safety, stating that every life lost on the roads is a devastating tragedy. The government plans to address the disproportionate involvement of young drivers aged 17-24 in fatal and serious collisions, proposing extended driving learning periods and specific training conditions.
Furthermore, new measures will focus on enhancing road safety for elderly drivers, potentially including mandatory eyesight tests and cognitive evaluations. Consultations are also planned to consider lowering the drink drive limit and exploring the use of alcohol interlock devices in vehicles to prevent intoxicated driving incidents.
The government’s strategy aims to address various road safety concerns, including illegal number plates, uninsured drivers, and vulnerable road users, such as motorcyclists and child pedestrians. By implementing these measures, the government hopes to significantly reduce the number of road fatalities and serious injuries by 2035, making roads safer for everyone.