Don’t Put Drugs in the Driving Seat
Between 2014 and 2023, there was a 70% increase in deceased drivers where drugs were present. Young men are overrepresented, with around 90% of drivers impaired by drugs in collisions being male, and 4 in every 10 aged between 17 and 29.*
Overconfidence and a tendency to underestimate the risks are widespread, with 32% of young men believing it is OK to drive after taking drugs if they ‘feel fine’, while 46% report knowing someone who drives after using drugs.
To tackle this growing issue, the Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership is working with THINK!. who are launching an impactful new campaign. ‘Don’t Put Drugs in the Driving Seat’ reminds young drivers of the risks and the spiral of consequences they can face if they choose to drug drive.
*Analysis of STATS19 data for collisions with ‘impaired by drugs’ as a contributory factor, 2018-2022 data
In 2015, the drug driving law changed to make it easier for the police to catch and convict drug drivers.
The facts
- It is now an offence to drive with any of 17 controlled drugs above a specified level in your blood – this includes illegal and medical drugs.
- The limits set for each drug are different, and for illegal drugs the limits set are extremely low, but have been set at a level to rule out any accidental exposure (for example, through passive smoking).
- Officers can test for cannabis and cocaine at the roadside, and screen for other drugs, including ecstasy, LSD, ketamine and heroin at the police station. Even drivers who pass the roadside check can be arrested if the police suspect that their driving is impaired by drugs.
The law
The penalties for drug driving are the same as for drink driving. If you are convicted, you could face:
- a minimum 12-month driving ban
- a criminal record
- an unlimited fine
- up to 6 months in prison
- an endorsement on your driving license for 11 years
The maximum penalty for causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drugs or drink is life in prison, with a minimum driving ban of five years.
The consequences
The consequences of a drug drive conviction are far-reaching and can include:
- job loss
- loss of independence
- The shame of having a criminal record
- increase in car insurance costs
- trouble getting into countries like the USA
