GEM calls for bold action in Road Safety Strategy
Ahead of the government’s new Road Safety Strategy, GEM Motoring Assist has published six key recommendations it believes will improve safety of the road.
The Road Safety Strategy is being introduced to reduce casualties on UK roads, with 1,633 people killed and a further 28,000 seriously injured last year.
These numbers have remained fairly constant since 2010, with GEM Motoring Assist now urging the government to act decisively to tackle some of the most common causes of death and serious injury.
Based on evidence, GEM has compiled a list of six steps it believes can be easily taken in the next few years to protect road users. They include the introduction of a graduated driving licence for new drivers, eyesight tests for older drivers, and a clamp down on drink and drug-driving.
It said:
“GEM believes that each of these proposals is practical, evidence-based and affordable. Together, they form a powerful package capable of resetting the UK’s commitment to safer roads. We eagerly await the publication of what we hope will be a bold road safety strategy. Progress is within reach. The only question now is whether we have the courage to deliver it.”
Eyesight testing
GEM Motoring Assist believes all drivers should pass a professional eyesight test when they reach 70, and then every three years after that. It also argues for professional eyesight tests for all other drivers every 10 years.
Graduated licensing
Successful in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and some US states, it is proven that GDL reduces collisions and casualties among new drivers. GEM argues that a similar system in the UK could include supervised experience before solo night driving, passenger number restrictions and zero-tolerance limits for alcohol.
Seat belt offences
Seat belts are one of the simplest lifesavers in road safety history, yet around a quarter of car occupants killed in crashes were not wearing them. GEM is calling for the government to make the non-wearing of seat belts a three-point driving offence with a large fine.
Drink driving
The current drink-drive limit in England, Northern Ireland and Wales is higher than the vast majority of Europe. GEM believes the limit should be lowered align science and policy. Furthermore, allowing roadside evidential breath testing would cut delays, increase enforcement efficiency and bring swift justice.
Drug driving
Drug driving enforcement is hampered by the cumbersome requirement to await toxicology reports from blood samples. Weeks can pass before a driver is charged. Modern testing kits can detect drugs accurately in saliva samples, making these results robust and suitable for evidential use. Allowing this would streamline the justice process and provide a strong deterrent.
Penalties
GEM suggests that any driver who fails a drink or drug test should lose their licence on the spot. This would send a clear message that driving under the influence is incompatible with holding legal responsibility for a vehicle.
