The Older Drivers Task Force recently released a report which found that over the next 20 years, car driver deaths in the 70 to 79 age group are expected to rise by 40 percent. As a result of these figures, they recommended introducing mandatory eyesight testing with an optometrist or medical practitioner.
In response to the backlash, a Department for Transport spokesperson told Express.co.uk that all measures were under review.
They said: “Safety remains our top priority and we will continue to ensure we strike the right balance between keeping the roads safe and maintaining people’s personal mobility into old age.
“We keep all measures under review and will consider the wider outcomes of this report.”
The report was funded by the Department for Transport to support commitments in the 2019 Road Safety Statement.
However, it can be seen from the data presented that the number of drivers with eyesight outside the standards required and identified by the Police increases greatly after the age of 70.
The report suggested that those who have an eyesight issue are either complacent about having their sight checked or avoid having their sight checked.
This could be because of the fear of not having suitable vision for driving and thus having their licence withdrawn.
Dr Suzy Charman, executive director of the Road Safety Foundation praised the report, saying she hoped the proposals would make driving safer for all.
She said: “We want to increase the pace of progress to ensure that we do not see the expected rise in the number of older drivers killed or seriously injured in road crashes.
“Key recommendations such as introducing mandatory eye tests at licence renewal at age 70 are considered essential and lifesaving.
“We hope the Department for Transport welcomes the report and can provide the leadership necessary to ensure these recommendations are taken forward.
“Not only will this make driving safer for older drivers, but it will also provide a legacy of safer roads for generations to come.”
Eyesight checks for those over 60 are free via the NHS, with the Older Drivers Task Force saying: “Requiring a test at least at licence renewal could be an acceptable and sensible road safety measure.”
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