Commissioner welcomes proposed changes to make Lancashire's roads safer

Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner has welcomed new Government proposals aimed at improving road safety, including reforms to driver medical fitness rules and mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers.

The proposals follow a series of tragic incidents in Lancashire and Merseyside, where individuals with serious medical conditions were able to continue driving, resulting in fatal collisions. These cases have prompted widespread calls for change from bereaved families, MPs, and road safety campaigners.

Commissioner Clive Grunshaw recently wrote to the Secretary of State for Transport urging the introduction of mandatory reporting by medical professionals to the DVLA, highlighting the need to close dangerous loopholes in the current system. The Government has now confirmed it is reviewing the law around self-declaration and considering further reforms to protect road users, alongside other proposals such as lowering of the drink-drive limit.

The Commissioner has pledged to work closely with Government and road safety partners to ensure that any changes to legislation are robust, effective, and prioritise the safety of Lancashire’s communities.

He also welcomed other measures outlined as set to be in a new road safety strategy, published in the Autumn.

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire said:

“These proposals are a welcome step forward in making our roads safer. In Lancashire, we’ve seen the devastating consequences of drivers continuing to use the roads despite serious medical conditions. These suggested changes will help close dangerous loopholes and protect the public.

“It is unacceptable that the responsibility to report lies solely with the driver. Professionals must be empowered to act when someone is unfit to drive. These reforms are a vital opportunity to strengthen the law and prevent further loss of life.

“We have dedicated teams working to tackle speeding, impaired driving, and criminal use of the road network. Strengthening the law around medical fitness to drive will support those efforts and help keep our roads safe for everyone.

“I will continue to work with Government to ensure these proposals lead to meaningful change. Our priority is keeping people safe—whether they’re walking to school, cycling to work, or simply crossing the road near their home.”