As a team who are often instructed to represent clients involved in road traffic collisions, we were intrigued to hear of the news that the Department for Transportation (DfT) is seeking views on the proposals for introducing mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers.
Our initial reaction was one of surprise, given the demographic of our clientele, being predominantly under 70 years of age. I took to the web to find out more.
The Latest Statistics
In September 2024, the DfT published statistics on road traffic casualties in Great Britain in relation to older drivers, whom they define as those aged 70+.[1] I’ve surmised my key findings as follows:
- In 2023, around 25% of drivers killed from a car collision were older drivers.
- In 2023, 11% of casualties from a car collision were older drivers.
- Between 2004-2023, Killed or Seriously Injured (KSI) casualties from a car collision involving 1+ older driver rose by 12%. Whilst those involving other aged drivers dropped by 45%.
- Between 2019-2023, the most common contributory factor allocated to vehicles being driven by an older car driver which involved a fatality or serious injury were as follows:
| Contributory Factor | Older car drivers | Other car drivers |
| Driver or rider failed to look properly | 28% | 19% |
| Driver or rider failed to judge other person`s path or speed | 13% | 8% |
What Are the Proposed Changes?
“The Department for Transport is seeking views on:
- potentially moving away from the current self-declaration system for eyesight standards for drivers aged 70 and over
- introducing mandatory eyesight tests for older drivers as part of the driving licence renewal process
In Great Britain, the entitlement to drive expires at the age of 70. Once drivers reach 70 years of age, they must renew their driving licence and, thereafter, at most every 3 years.
To renew their entitlement, they must make a legal declaration that they can meet the eyesight standards required to drive and confirm whether they have any listed medical conditions.
Vision is a critical component of safe driving and ensuring that older drivers can meet the minimum standards required for driving directly addresses a key factor in road safety.”[2]
The consultation will close at 11.59pm on 31st March 2026, so hopefully we don’t have to wait too long to find out the outcome.
Safety or Scrutiny?
Drivers aged 70+ are already required to renew their licence every 3 years[3], relying on a “self-report” system for medical fitness. Applicants must meet DVLA minimum eyesight conditions. New proposals, however, suggest replacing this trust-based system with compulsory, professional eye tests.
Age UK director Caroline Abrahams asks:” People can develop eye problems at any age so why confine such an approach only to those aged 70 and not to younger drivers too?”[4]. While road safety is a priority for everyone, many wonder if these specific proposals are truly necessary – especially since British road casualties are at a record low. Like millions of senior drivers, we’re waiting to see if these proposals will actually become a reality.
If you have been accused of a motoring offence, it is extremely important to seek specialist legal advice before responding to any paperwork. Contact our specialist Road Traffic Defence Team today for a free initial consultation. Call us today at 0161 930 5151, email us at crimeandregulatoryteam@gorvins.com or fill in the online form.
[1] Reported road casualties in Great Britain: older driver factsheet, 2023 – GOV.UK
[2] Introducing mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers – GOV.UK
[3] Renew your driving licence if you’re 70 or over – GOV.UK
[4] Age UK responds to possible eye tests for motorists over 70