Four drivers a day convicted of drug driving
Written by News on 27/08/2017
Nearly four drivers are convicted of drug-driving offences every day, research shows.
"Drugalysers" – used on the roadside to test drivers for cannabis and cocaine – helped police to successfully convict nearly 1,500 UK drivers in 2015.
Blood tests which identify ecstasy, LSD, ketamine and heroin can also be carried out at police stations.
And it’s not just illegal substances officers test for.
Prescription drugs – including morphine, temazepam and amphetamines prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – can also take drivers over the legal limit.
Laws introduced in 2015 made it illegal to drive with certain drugs in the body above a specified amount.
Until 2015, police had to gather evidence to show a driver was impaired before they were able to carry out tests.
With official conviction rates at an impressive 98%, drug driving offenders are now as likely to be brought to justice as drunk motorists.
Offenders can face losing their licence, fines of up to £5,000 or even prison.
The Department for Transport report showed that the majority of drivers screened for drug use were men under 30, with two-thirds of those convicted had previously committed other criminal offences.
A spokesman for National Police Chiefs’ Council said the legislation had made it "much easier" for police to identify those driving under the influence of drugs.
But he said: "Far too many people still attempt to drive under the influence of drugs."
Transport minister Paul Maynard said the new data showed "that if you take drugs and drive, you will face the consequences".
(c) Sky News 2017: Four drivers a day convicted of drug driving
