The government has proposed to tighten health checks for commercial vehicle drivers, to better protect road users following a spate of accidents involving older drivers.

Currently, commercial vehicle drivers aged 70 or above have to undergo a physical every one to three years when they renew their licences.

In a paper submitted to the Legislative Council, the Transport Department said it plans to lower the age to 65 and require annual check-ups, including eyesight and hearing tests.

The department said those suffering from certain conditions, such as dementia, single-eye blindness, night blindness and brain tumours, will not be given a licence.

The requirements will also apply to driving instructors.

The changes, which will be tabled to the Legislative Council in the first half of next year, are expected to take effect in the third quarter of next year at the earliest.

Transport sector representatives have expressed worries that the stricter requirements will lead to an exodus of workers from the transport industry, worsening manpower shortages.

But the department dismissed such concerns, saying that the review aims to screen out underlying health conditions that may affect driving abilities.