The 1 huge driving law change needed more than new eye test rule for drivers over 70

Labour ministers look set to introduce a crackdown on older drivers with the introduction of new compulsory eyesight tests for over-70s. Earlier this week, it was confirmed that the move was being considered as part of a sweeping update to UK road safety laws. The new policy could see pensioners lose their driving licence and taken off the roads if their eyesight fails to meet a certain vision standard in a bid to boost safety on Britain's streets.

However, in the hours that followed the announcement, a pattern seemed to emerge on social media sites, motoring forums and blog pages as family members took to platforms screaming for further action. Reddit users suggested their elderly parents had “awful reaction times”, often got “dizzy” behind the wheel, with some even unable to “move their legs” properly to reach the pedals.

One individual even claimed their grandparent suffered cognitive decline and needed a nap every three hours despite having perfect eyesight. Under the new rules, this individual would therefore still be granted a licence despite possibly being unfit to drive. The new eyesight testing rule is a step forward and something that has been demanded by campaigners for years, but a major loophole still seems to exist.

It’s more than plausible for road users with serious medical conditions could still pass the visual assessment and stay on the roads despite posing a major risk. For example, neurological impairments such as early dementia and Alzheimer's, heart conditions, arthritis and sleep problems are all serious problems that are unlikely to be flagged up by a simple eye test.

Older drivers suffering from these issues should already be reporting their concerns to the DVLA. But many are likely remaining silent, powering through despite the ailments through fear of losing their freedoms. The only way around this would be to introduce a mandatory 15-minute driving test for everyone at the age of 70 to check their road skills are up to scratch.

This should also be extended to every road user reporting a serious medical condition at certain intervals, such as every three or five years. Data shows the idea is generally popular, with a survey carried out by Uswitch car insurance revealing that 67% of drivers believe drivers should be forced to retake a test once they reach a certain age.

Earlier this week, road users took to forums openly calling for individuals to sit reaction tests and stress-based assessments. Rob Heard, founder of the Older Drivers Forum and a leading voice for safety on the roads, has even suggested that over-70s should book in for a mature driver assessment every three years.

A quick test would be the ideal solution, ensuring every road user on Britain’s roads is up to scratch and safe. However, the current crisis with driving test backlogs makes this a non-starter for now. Waiting lists are at a staggering 22 weeks as of the end of June with over 600,000 provisional licence holders booked in for assessments.

Compulsory tests for over-70s and those with serious medical conditions could be a long-term strategy but it's going to take a lot of extra investment to make it a reality.