DfT Launches First Road Safety Strategy in Over a Decade: What It Means for UK Drivers

The Department for Transport (DfT) has unveiled its first Road Safety Strategy (RSS) in more than ten years, a landmark move aimed at making Britain’s roads safer for everyone. This comprehensive plan sets ambitious targets and introduces practical measures that will impact drivers, learners, and road users nationwide.

Aiming for Safer Roads

The Government’s goal is clear: reduce deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads by 65% by 2035, with an even more ambitious 70% reduction for children under 16. These targets reflect a strong commitment to saving lives and improving road safety for all.

Four Pillars of the Strategy

The RSS is built around four key themes:

1. Supporting Road Users – Initiatives to help drivers and pedestrians make safer choices.
2. Harnessing Technology and Innovation – Using data and advanced vehicle safety systems to prevent collisions and improve post-crash care.
3. Safe Infrastructure – Ensuring roads and transport networks are designed with safety in mind.
4. Robust Enforcement – Strengthening laws and penalties to protect all road users.

Key Measures to Watch

• Tackling Drink Driving – Enhanced enforcement and awareness campaigns.
• Improved Training for Young Drivers – A proposed minimum learning period of three to six months for learner drivers, ensuring better preparation before taking the test.
• Mandatory Eye Tests for Older Motorists – Helping maintain fitness to drive and reduce risk.
• Lifelong Learning for Road Users – National guidance and a manual to support continuous education on road safety.

Why This Matters for Learner Drivers

For those starting their driving journey, the proposed minimum learning period could reshape how training is delivered. At Next Mile Driver Training, we welcome measures that prioritise safety and thorough preparation because confident, well-trained drivers make safer roads.

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Next Mile Driver Training and Lifelong Learning

The Road Safety Strategy introduces a Lifelong Learning approach, recognising that road safety education should not stop once you pass your test. This means ongoing learning opportunities for all drivers, from beginners to experienced motorists.

At Next Mile Driver Training, we already embrace this philosophy:

• Structured Learning for Beginners: Our courses go beyond the basics, focusing on hazard perception, eco-driving, and some advanced driving techniques.
• Post-Test Support: We offer refresher lessons and advanced driving modules to help drivers stay sharp and adapt to new road rules and technologies.
• Continuous Education: Through blogs, workshops, and online resources, we keep our clients informed about changes in legislation, vehicle safety features, and best practices.

We believe driving is a skill that evolves over time, and our mission is to support every stage of that journey.

What’s Next?

The Government will consult on these proposals soon, and we will keep you updated on how they affect learner drivers and training programmes. In the meantime, you can read the full strategy on https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/road-safety-strategy