Hampshire road safety expert says government's Road Safety Strategy's a "game changer"
Mandatory eye tests for drivers over 70 are being launched as part of the strategy
A Hampshire road safety expert says the government's first road safety strategy in over a decade is a "game changer".
The strategy sets out a plan to reduce deaths and serious injuries on British roads by 65% by 2035.
Rob Heard MBE's been campaigning for the introduction of compulsory eye tests for the last 13 years, which is now being launched as part of the strategy.
He said: "I'm really pleased.
"It does seem that we're going to be implementing some serious changes in road safety, which have been needed for many, many years.
"It's really pleasing to see the compulsory eyesight testing.
"We know that as we age, our sight does deteriorate quite often without us being aware of it.
"By having a regular eyesight test, it's also a great way of picking up medical conditions early and allowing them to be treated, which can allow people to actually carry on driving much longer as well."
Approximately four people die on Britain's roads every day, with thousands more seriously injured each year.
It's hoped targeted action on speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seat belts, and mobile phone use, thousands of these tragedies can be prevented.
The government are also consulting on lowering the drink drive limit in England and Wales, which currently stands as the highest in Europe.
Mr Heard's telling us what he'd like to see now.
He said: "I generally feel that we are one of the worst countries in Europe for our eyesight regulations.
"90% of driving is visual and we need to be able to see the hazards to be able to react to them.
"Therefore, at any age, it's very important that all of us go and have a regular eyesight test with an optometrist."
The government also released a statement.
Secretary of State for Transport, 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.
“We are taking decisive action to make our roads safer for everyone, from new drivers taking their first lessons to older motorists wanting to maintain their independence.
"The measures we are announcing today will save thousands of lives over the coming decade."