Mandatory eye tests for drivers over 70 may be introduced as part of new road safety measures.

Cognitive tests for older drivers could also be considered as part of a broader road safety strategy that aims to reduce deaths and injuries without limiting the independence of older drivers.

The government’s plans – which will be published in full on Wednesday – aim to cut road deaths and serious injuries by 65% by 2035, and by 70% for children under 16.

About 24% of drivers killed in collisions in 2024 were aged 70 or older, while older drivers accounted for 12% of all car crash casualties.

Lilian Greenwood, local transport minister, said: “We know driving is important for older people’s well-being and independence, but we must ensure everyone on our roads is safe.

“As the country’s older population grows, this first road safety strategy in over a decade will balance personal freedoms with measures to save lives.”

What are your views? Would compulsory eye tests for over-70s make our roads safer, or is this an unnecessary burden on older drivers?