Over Half of Motorists Fail Drug-Driving Tests

More than half of motorist test by Police during a drug driving crackdown campaign were found to be positive. This is according to police data. Throughout June and July 2018, Police forces in England and Wales carried out roadside tests, for both drink driving and drug driving. Shockingly, 57% tested for drug driving were found to be positive. A total of 1962 drivers tested for drugs, out of which 1118 were under the influence.

UK Drug Driving Law

The law in the UK states that “It is illegal to drive if either you are unfit to do so because you’re on legal or illegal drugs.” It also states that “It is illegal to drive if you have certain levels of illegal drugs in your blood. This applies even if your driving is not affected.

Legal drugs are prescription or over-the-counter medicines. If you’re taking medication and not sure if you should drive, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or healthcare professional.

Medician – Commonly Available yet makes Driving Illegal

Clonazepam. Used for the treatment of seizures or panic disorders.
Diazepam. Used for the treatment of muscle spasms, anxiety disorders & alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Flunitrazepam is a sedative which was originally used in hospitals for deep sedation.
Lorazepam. Used to the treatment of convulsions or seizures.
Oxazepam is used to relieve anxiety, including anxiety caused by alcohol withdrawal.
Temazepam affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause insomnia problems.
Methadone is used in the treatment of heroin addiction and for pain relief.
Morphine. Commonly used for the treatment moderate to severe pain.

Penalties for Drug Driving

You could be imprisoned, banned from driving and face a fine if you’re found guilty of drug driving. The courts also offer a drug-drive rehabilitation course which can often reduce your sentence if you’re banned for 12 months or more. Fines can amount to thousands can could seriously impact your livelihood. Not only that, but it can have a serious impact on your family life if imprisonment is involved, even if the sentence is short. The driver may also required to retake their driving test.