Local MPs have welcomed the government’s new Road Safety Strategy, which aims to cut deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads by 65% by 2035.
The strategy includes consultations on lowering the drink-drive limit – unchanged since 1967 – tougher action on repeat offenders, and the potential use of alcohol interlock devices.
To reduce collisions involving young drivers, the government will consult on a three or six-month minimum learning period, while mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over 70 will also be considered as the population ages.
Further measures include cracking down on illegal ‘ghost’ number plates, uninsured driving, and vehicles without a valid MOT, mandating 18 new vehicle safety technologies, and establishing a new Road Safety Investigation Branch and Board to oversee delivery.
Cat Smith MP, Labour’s MP for Lancaster & Wyre, said: ‘’This strategy is a vital step towards preventing avoidable deaths and injuries, and it shows what can be achieved when government finally chooses to act.
‘’Whether it's speeding on Newlands Road in Bowerham where I've secured enforcement and monitoring, or dangerous driving in the Skerton and Scale Hall areas like along Barley Cop Lane, I'm pleased that the Government is committed to make our roads safer.
‘’Here in Lancaster & Wyre we know all too well the consequences of poor road safety, from persistent local speeding concerns to the needless and often tragic crashes along the M6 that cause heavy disruption through our communities.
‘’People in Lancaster & Wyre will be safer because of this strategy.”
Morecambe and Lunesdale’s Lizzi Collinge MP said: "These tragedies on our roads are preventable and I’m proud to welcome the Government’s new Road Safety Strategy.
‘’It’s a landmark step that reflects the fact that we can prevent more people dying and being seriously injured.
‘’These reforms will save lives, protect vulnerable road users, and ensure the high standards of safety that local people expect."
Labour’s 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.”
Morecambe children's nursery announces plans to close during extreme heat
Lancaster MP responds to Sir Keir Starmer's resignation as Prime Minister
Carnforth High School praised as a "caring community" in Ofsted report
Body of man found in Lancaster park
LISTEN and PHOTOS: Armed Forces weekend will return after massive crowds enjoy biggest ever event
Morecambe MP says Sir Keir Starmer "has made right decision" as Prime Minister resigns
Limited edition artwork will raise vital funds for Lancaster community group
Green Heritage Plaque marks first home of Lancaster University
New home revealed for £20m Morecambe West End regeneration scheme
Wooden nests take flight in Lancaster and Morecambe to stop decline of endangered birds
Veterans salute as Armed Forces Day flag raised at start of celebration weekend in Morecambe
Vandals cause delays to aqueduct sinkhole repairs in Lancaster
Extra Care scheme to open in Lancaster
Three people taken to hospital after road traffic collision in Morecambe
Injured police officer speaks of anger after jailed man freed 16 days after sentence
Morecambe woman to brave the shave to help dogs stay with their families
M6 near Lancaster to close for resurfacing
Full line-up for biggest ever Armed Forces weekend in Morecambe
Lancaster District residents thanked for embracing food waste recycling
More gridlocks in Heysham as roundabout resurfacing works 'over-run'
