GEM Motoring Assist, a road safety and breakdown organisation, welcomes the Government’s plan to strengthen eyesight checks for older drivers as part of the new national road safety strategy. Focusing on fitness to drive in later life, including possible mandatory eye tests for drivers over 70, is an important move to help reduce deaths and serious injuries on UK roads.
Driving helps older people remain independent, connected, and maintain their well-being, and GEM has supported older drivers for many years. Still, safety for all on the road must come first. Ensuring drivers of all ages have the vision and mental skills needed for safe driving is a fair and balanced approach.
James Luckhurst, GEM’s head of road safety, said: “GEM believes that good eyesight is a cornerstone of safer driving in later life. By maintaining the best possible standards of vision, older drivers can protect their independence, while also reducing avoidable risks for everyone who uses the road network.”
GEM also supports the new strategy’s wider goal to significantly reduce casualties by 2035, especially for children and other vulnerable road users. As part of this ongoing commitment to safer travel, GEM is proud to be the main sponsor of a mature drivers conference in Birmingham this April, where experts will share best practices and help promote safer driving for longer.
FAQ’s…
Why is the UK government considering mandatory eyesight checks for drivers over 70?
The UK government is considering mandatory eyesight checks for drivers over 70 to ensure they have the necessary vision to drive safely, thereby helping to reduce road accidents and protect all road users.
How does GEM Motoring Assist view the importance of eyesight for older drivers?
GEM Motoring Assist believes that good eyesight is essential for safe driving in later life, as maintaining proper vision helps protect drivers’ independence and reduces the risk of accidents for everyone on the road.
What is GEM’s stance on balancing safety and independence for older drivers?
GEM supports the idea that maintaining safety standards, including vision checks, is crucial to ensure that older drivers can remain independent while also minimizing risks to themselves and others on the road.
What are the broader goals of the UK’s new road safety strategy related to older drivers?
The broader goals of the new road safety strategy include reducing casualties, especially among children and vulnerable road users, by ensuring that all drivers, including older ones, meet safety standards such as eyesight requirements.
How is GEM contributing to safer driving for mature drivers?
GEM is supporting safer driving for mature drivers by sponsoring events like the mature drivers conference, where experts share best practices to promote safer driving habits among older individuals.
