Road safety is back in the spotlight, with the UK government announcing a bold plan to cut road deaths and make our streets safer for everyone. This strategy comes on the back of the government’s commitment to the ‘Marrakesh Declaration’ following the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Marrakesh earlier in 2025. Subsequently, a brand-new Road Safety Strategy is on the way this autumn — and it could mean big changes for drivers, from tougher eyesight checks to stricter drink-drive limits.

Why the Government Is Taking Action

For the past decade, road death figures in Great Britain have stayed stubbornly high. In 2024, traffic incidents killed 1,633 people and seriously injured almost 28,000 others. These figures have remained reasonably constant since 2010 after a significant fall in the preceding ten years.

Worryingly, drink-driving deaths have hit a 13-year high, and coroner reports have raised concerns about the country’s “lax” approach to driver eyesight standards. The burden on the NHS of road injuries is topping £2 billion a year and the new Labour government wants this strategy to restore order to our roads.

What’s in the New Road Safety Strategy?

Here’s what’s currently on the table (subject to consultation):

Compulsory eyesight tests for over-70s

• Drivers aged 70+ would have mandatory eyesight tests every three years when renewing their licence.
• Anyone failing would face a driving ban.
• This follows cases where fatal crashes were linked to poor vision in older drivers.

Lower drink-drive limit

• England and Wales could see the limit drop from 35 to 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath — the same as Scotland and most of Europe.

Harsher penalties

• Points for passengers not wearing a seatbelt.
• Easier prosecutions for drug-driving using roadside saliva tests.
• Potential medical checks for conditions like dementia.

The Missing Piece – Young Driver Safety

While the AA and other motoring groups support the proposals, they argue the plan misses one key measure: restrictions on new drivers carrying peer-age passengers in the first six months.

Stats show 1 in 5 young drivers crash in their first year, and over 1,500 are killed or seriously injured annually. Campaigners believe passenger limits could make a big difference — but ministers are wary of “unfairly discriminating” against young motorists.

What This Means for Drivers and Fleets

Whether you’re an individual driver or manage a whole fleet, these changes underline the importance of proactive driver safety checks.

Fleet Service GB’s Driver Management service is a great example of how to stay ahead. Their system includes regular eyesight declarations, ensuring every driver is fit to drive and compliant with DVLA standards — long before renewal time. This means safer roads, fewer incidents, and peace of mind for employers and drivers alike.

Staying Safe and Compliant – Practical Tips

• Book regular eye tests – don’t wait for the law to change; make sure you meet the vision standards now.
• Know your limits – if the drink-drive threshold drops, even small amounts of alcohol could put you over.
• Check vehicle safety – seatbelts, tyres, and lights should be inspected regularly.
• Educate your team – fleet managers should ensure drivers understand and follow best practice on the road.

FAQs About the New Road Safety Strategy

What is the UK’s new Road Safety Strategy?

It’s a government plan (due autumn 2025) to reduce road deaths through measures like compulsory eyesight tests for over-70s, lower drink-drive limits, and tougher penalties for unsafe driving.

When will the new rules start?

The proposals will go to public consultation first. If approved, changes could begin rolling out in 2026.

Will the eyesight tests apply to all drivers?

The government initially aims the tests at drivers over 70, but experts like the Older Drivers Forum recommend making them compulsory for all ages.

FAQs About Fleet Service GB

What is Fleet Service GB?

Fleet Service GB is a UK-based fleet management company offering tailored services to help businesses run safe, compliant, and cost-effective fleets.

What is the Driver Management service?

It’s a comprehensive system that monitors driver compliance, training, and wellbeing — including eyesight declarations — to make sure every driver is fit to be on the road.

Why are eyesight declarations important?

They ensure all drivers meet the legal vision requirements, reducing the risk of accidents caused by poor eyesight and keeping fleets compliant with DVLA regulations.

The Bottom Line

The government’s new Road Safety Strategy marks the biggest shake-up of driving laws in decades. Whether you’re a 75-year-old with perfect vision or a new fleet driver, staying safe means staying informed — and proactive.

And remember: passing an eyesight test isn’t just about keeping your licence. It’s about protecting yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.