An overhaul of the UK’s road safety laws could lead to over-70s being banned from driving for failing to pass an eye test.
Planned changes could also lead to the drink-driving limit being cut in England and Wales to bring it into line with the lower level in effect in Scotland, according to the Times.
Motoring groups have praised the proposals as ‘much overdue’ and ‘a step in the right direction’.
It is expected they will be published as part of a new road safety strategy in the autumn.
More than 1,600 people in the UK were killed in traffic incidents last year, while almost 28,000 were seriously injured.
Those numbers fell significantly between 2000 and 2010, but have remained relatively consistent since then.
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A Labour source told the PA news agency: ‘At the end of the last Labour government, the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads was at a record low, but numbers have remained stubbornly high under successive Conservative governments.
‘In no other circumstance would we accept 1,600 people dying, with thousands more seriously injured, costing the NHS more than £2 billion per year.’
The UK is one of just three countries in Europe that rely on drivers to self-report problems with eyesight that could affect them behind the wheel.
Among the other moves reportedly being considered are tougher penalties for uninsured drivers and for failing to wear a seatbelt, and allowing the police to bring prosecutions for drunk driving on the basis of saliva tests conducted on the roadside.
AA President Edmund King said: ‘The time has come for a bold and proactive approach to road safety.
‘This strategy is much overdue as road deaths have plateaued over the last decade.
‘We believe these new measures will not only modernise our approach to saving lives but also provide renewed momentum in making our roads safer for everyone.’
Nicholas Lyes of charity IAM RoadSmart said: ‘While many drivers over the age of 70 are safe and competent, health issues and confidence can have an impact on driving abilities, so it is sensible to review whether changes need to be made.
‘We would also support reducing the drink-drive limit in England and Wales alongside measures to target drug-driving, however these would require significantly more backing for roads policing teams to effectively enforce new laws.’
All proposals in the new strategy will be subject to consultation.
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