Reducing Drink-Drive Limits and Mandatory Eye Tests for UK Motorists

Proposed new driving laws may see the drink-drive limit reduced as part of a raft of policies seeking to boost safety on UK roads.

Currently, the limit is 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres but this could be reduced to 22 micrograms, bringing it in line with Scotland’s current limits.

Plans, first reported in the Times, are expected to be unveiled in a road safety strategy which will be published in the Autumn.

These changes may also include compulsory eye tests for motorists over the age of 70 when they renew their licence every three years.

Currently, the UK relies on a self-reporting system when it comes to visual conditions that may affect a motorist’s ability to drive, one of just three European nations to do so.

Edmund King, President of the AA, told BBC Radio 4: “When you look at road deaths the big peaks are with young, new drivers and then older drivers – although older drivers it does tend to be those over 80 and 85.”

Other potential changes include being punished with points on your licence for not wearing a seatbelt and potential medical tests for conditions such as dementia.

These are currently proposals under consideration and are yet to be delivered into law.

Share this article