Drivers over 70 face new test as Andy Burnham | Tech News

Drivers aged over 70 could possibly be required to move obligatory eyesight exams each three years underneath proposals backed by Andy Burnham. The plans kind half of a new street security strategy geared toward making certain older motorists stay secure behind the wheel. If launched, drivers who fail the eyesight test might lose their licence when it comes up for renewal.

The proposals observe growing requires more durable security checks after a quantity of deadly crashes involving aged motorists lately. Motorists are already required to resume their driving licence on the age of 70 and each three years after that. Under the present system, drivers self-declare any medical situations that might have an effect on their potential to drive.

If the adjustments go forward, over-70s would as an alternative be required to move an eyesight test earlier than being allowed to resume their licence.

More than 10,000 driving licences have been revoked or refused renewal because the starting of final 12 months, based on an investigation by Yorkshire Live.

The proposals have additionally brought on confusion online, with some social media customers mistakenly claiming pensioners must retake their full driving test each three years.

One X consumer wrote: “I’ve just written to my MP about Burnham’s plans for over 70s to take a driving test every three years. I am totally incensed about it on so many levels.”

However, a neighborhood notice hooked up to the post clarified that the proposals relate to obligatory eyesight exams, moderately than full driving exams.

The plans are additionally stated to incorporate consideration of cognitive assessments for older motorists amid issues over response occasions and focus, though no resolution has been made.

Matt Crole-Rees, motoring skilled at Confused.com, stated: “Sufficient eyesight is crucial for safe driving at any age, as clear vision is essential for spotting hazards and reacting quickly behind the wheel.

“While the Government’s session on introducing obligatory eye exams for older drivers is a optimistic step in the direction of enhancing street security, it is important to recognise that eyesight can (*70*) over time, and plenty of motorists might not realise when their imaginative and prescient no longer meets the legal commonplace, together with having the ability to learn a quantity plate from 20 metres away.”