Elderly Drivers Now Required to Test Eyes every Three Years or SIM Can Be Revoked

JAKARTA - Drivers over the age of 70 in the UK will be required to undergo an eye test every three years. If they do not meet the standards, their driver's license (SIM) may be revoked.

This policy is part of the new Road Safety Strategy of the British Government which is aimed at reducing the number of deaths due to traffic accidents. The British Regional Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood MP, emphasized the importance of balancing safety and independence for the elderly.

"We know that driving is so important for the well-being of the elderly and helps them live independently, but we also have to ensure the safety of everyone on the road," he said, as reported by Autoexpress, Wednesday, January 7.

"As the population of the elderly in this country increases, our plan in the first road safety strategy in more than a decade will keep personal freedom as much as possible with actions to save lives," he continued.

Currently, the DVLA requires drivers in the UK to be able to read number plates from a minimum distance of 20 metres. However, outside of the driving test, there is no obligation for regular vision tests.

Drivers who have vision impairment are required to report independently to the DVLA and then be referred for a test. This self-reporting system is considered to leave a gap, because not everyone reports and continues to drive with a risky condition.

Last year, an investigation revealed that four pedestrians were killed after being hit by an elderly driver who failed to report their vision loss to the DVLA. In response to the findings, a senior coroner sent a letter to the government calling the current rules unsafe and inadequate to meet the needs of the public.

Similar concerns were also expressed by the road safety charity IAM RoadSmart's Nicholas Lyes. He said the new test was considered reasonable.

"Although many drivers over the age of 70 are safe and competent, health and confidence issues can affect driving ability, so it makes sense to review whether changes need to be made," he said.

Full details of the policy are scheduled to be announced shortly in conjunction with the official launch of the UK Government's Road Safety Strategy. In addition to eye tests for elderly drivers, other changes being considered include lowering the blood alcohol limit while driving in England and Wales to align with Scotland, as well as introducing penalty points for offenders who do not wear seat belts.