Older driver safety - eyesight tests

Y Wasg / Cyfryngau: Cyfraniad i'r Cyfryngau

Disgrifiad

Spoke on BBC Radio 5 Live about proposals expected in the forthcoming UK road safety strategy, including discussion of eyesight testing for older drivers.

Cyfnod06 Ion 2026

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  • TeitlAre older driver safe?
    Graddau amlygrwyddCenedlaethol
    Enw cyfrwng / allfaBBC Radio 5
    Math y cyfrwngRadio
    Hyd / Maintstarts at 1h17
    Gwlad/TiriogaethTeyrnas Unedig Prydain Fawr a Gogledd Iwerddon
    Dyddiad cyhoeddi06 Ion 2026
    DisgrifiadKey evidence-based points:

    Older adults are not inherently unsafe drivers.

    Collision rates per mile rise mainly in the very oldest age groups, largely due to frailty and injury severity, not reckless driving.

    Many older drivers compensate effectively by driving less and avoiding high-risk situations.

    Eyesight matters, but visual acuity alone is a weak predictor of crash risk; glare, contrast sensitivity, and low-light vision are often more relevant.

    There is no single test (vision or cognitive) that reliably identifies unsafe drivers.

    International experience shows that blunt, age-based testing can have unintended consequences, including removing safe drivers.

    If introduced, eyesight testing may be most valuable in prompting reflection and informed decision-making, rather than acting as a simple pass–fail tool. Improving safety for an ageing population requires supportive policy, age-friendly road design, and realistic transport alternatives alongside any testing.
    URLhttps://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002pd99
    UnigolionCharles Musselwhite