Commissioner welcomes Government’s new road safety strategy aimed at protecting communities

The strategy follows initial proposals first announced in August, which came after a series of tragic incidents across the country, including in Lancashire, where drivers with deteriorating eyesight or medical conditions were able to continue driving, with devastating consequences. An inquest into the deaths of four people killed by drivers with failing vision described the current system as “ineffective and unsafe”, prompting renewed calls for reform from coroners, bereaved families, and road safety campaigners.

Since the summer announcement, Commissioner Clive Grunshaw has been actively engaging with the Government and the DVLA, pressing for stronger medical fitness-to-drive rules and mandatory reporting by healthcare professionals. He has consistently highlighted the need to close dangerous loopholes and ensure that those unfit to drive are identified before further tragedies occur.

The Commissioner has pledged to continue working closely with Government and local partners to ensure the measures are implemented effectively and deliver meaningful improvements for Lancashire’s communities.

He also welcomed additional proposals within the strategy, including lowering the drink-drive limit in England to match Scotland, penalty points for not wearing seatbelts, and cracking down on illegal number plates, uninsured drivers, and vehicles without valid MOTs.

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire, said:

“These proposals are a significant step forward in making our roads safer. In particular, we have seen first-hand the devastating consequences when drivers continue to use the roads despite serious medical conditions or failing eyesight.

“These measures aim to reduce deaths and injuries involving older drivers, without unnecessarily restricting their mobility and personal freedom. Ensuring regular eyesight tests for older drivers is a major step forward in improving public safety and preventing avoidable tragedies.

“Since the initial announcement in August, I have been engaging with Government and the DVLA to ensure these changes are robust, workable, and focused on public safety.

“Introducing regular eyesight testing for older drivers, reviewing drink-drive limits, and improving vehicle safety will support the work police teams do every day to keep Lancashire’s roads safe.

“The focus on younger drivers and motorcycle safety is also a positive step, given these are some of our most vulnerable road users.

“The success of this strategy depends on strong partnerships, and I will continue to work with Government to ensure these proposals lead to real, lasting change. Our priority is keeping people safe, whether they’re walking to school, cycling to work, or simply crossing the road near their home.”