Motorists face tougher penalties under a new road safety strategy introduced by Andy Burnham's government. The plan, originally drafted under Keir Starmer, includes penalty points for seatbelt offences, a reduced drink-drive limit, and mandatory eyesight tests for drivers over 70.
Penalty Points for Seatbelt Offences
Currently, failing to wear a seatbelt carries a fine of up to £500 but no penalty points. Under the new rules, drivers caught without a seatbelt will also receive penalty points on their licence, bringing them closer to a driving ban. The government believes this will act as a stronger deterrent, as points accumulate and can lead to disqualification.
Roadside cameras are being upgraded with advanced technology to detect seatbelt violations and other dangerous behaviours. The strategy aims to reduce the number of deaths and injuries on UK roads, where seatbelt non-compliance remains a significant factor.
Lower Drink-Drive Limit
The strategy proposes cutting the drink-drive limit in England and Wales from 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath to 22 micrograms. This would align with Scotland's limit and make it illegal to consume even small amounts of alcohol before driving. The change is expected to reduce alcohol-related collisions, which account for around 15% of road fatalities annually.
According to the government document, the reduction could save approximately 25 lives per year. However, critics argue that the new limit may criminalise social drinkers who feel they are safe to drive after a single drink.
Mandatory Eyesight Tests for Older Drivers
Drivers aged over 70 will be required to undergo mandatory eyesight tests, and possibly cognitive assessments, to renew their licences. Currently, older drivers self-certify their fitness to drive every three years. The new rules aim to identify age-related vision decline and cognitive impairment, which can increase crash risk.
Data from the Department for Transport shows that drivers over 70 are involved in fewer accidents per mile than younger drivers, but they are more vulnerable to injury. The government says the tests are a precautionary measure to keep roads safe while allowing older drivers to remain mobile.
Background and Implementation
The road safety strategy was developed during Keir Starmer's premiership but has been adopted by Burnham's administration. It follows years of campaigning by road safety charities, such as Brake, which have called for tougher penalties and stricter limits. The government plans to consult on the proposals before introducing legislation, likely within the next year.
Motorists' groups have expressed concerns about the cumulative impact of penalty points and the financial burden of fines. The AA warned that while safety is paramount, the measures must be proportionate and clearly communicated to avoid confusion.
