The Government’s New Road Safety Strategy
The UK Government has recently launched a new national Road Safety Strategy aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries on British roads over the next ten years.
This is the first major nationwide road safety plan introduced in more than a decade, signalling a renewed focus on tackling long-standing risks and improving road behaviour across the country.
Bold National Targets for Reducing Fatalities
A central part of the strategy is an ambitious commitment to cut road deaths and serious injuries by 65% by the year 2035.
For children under the age of 16, the goal is even more significant, with a planned reduction of 70%.
The Department for Transport says the strategy has been developed in response to the fact that progress in reducing collisions has slowed in recent years, despite continued daily loss of life.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:
“Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy that devastates families and communities. For too long, progress on road safety has stalled. This strategy marks a turning point.”
Official figures suggest that around four people die every day on Britain’s roads, while many more suffer serious injuries with long-term consequences.
The strategy focuses on the most frequent causes of major collisions and aims to drive lasting improvements in behaviour and enforcement.
Proposed Changes to Driver Standards and Risky Behaviour
Several key areas of driving policy are expected to be reviewed through new consultations.
Lower Drink-Drive Limits Under Consideration
One major proposal is to consult on reducing the legal drink-drive limit in England and Wales, bringing it closer to the stricter limit already used in Scotland.
The government is also exploring the potential use of alcohol interlock devices for repeat drink-driving offenders. These systems prevent vehicles from starting if alcohol is detected.
Stronger Requirements for Newly Qualified Drivers
The strategy also sets out plans to consider tougher measures for new drivers, including the possibility of introducing mandatory minimum learning periods.
The aim is to ensure that newly qualified motorists gain more real-world experience before being allowed to drive independently, improving safety during the highest-risk early years.
Older Drivers and Eyesight Testing
Older motorists are also included in the proposals. The government intends to consult on introducing mandatory eyesight checks for drivers aged 70 and over, with the option of exploring cognitive assessments in certain circumstances.
This reflects an effort to ensure all drivers remain fit to drive safely as they age.
Greater Enforcement Against Illegal and Unsafe Driving
Stronger enforcement measures form a major part of the government’s approach.
The strategy outlines increased action against:
Uninsured motorists
Vehicles being driven without valid MOTs
The use of illegal number plates
These steps are intended not only to reduce road danger, but also to improve fairness for motorists who follow the rules.
The AA Charitable Trust welcomed the announcement, describing the strategy as overdue and praising its focus on drink-driving, seatbelt use, and tackling uninsured vehicles.
What This Strategy Could Mean for Drivers and Businesses
For organisations, the government has introduced the concept of a National Work-Related Road Safety Charter.
This would establish clearer safety expectations for employers whose staff drive as part of their role, helping to reduce collisions and road risk linked to work activity.
For drivers, fleet operators and insurers, the overall direction is clear: the UK is moving towards:
Tougher safety standards
Increased enforcement
Greater driver responsibility
Higher compliance expectations
As consultations progress, both individuals and businesses should stay informed and be prepared for changes that could affect driving habits, legal requirements, and insurance considerations.
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