MCE NEWS ARTICLE - 2024


Almost 8,000 drug driving arrests in England and Wales in the last year

MCE Insurance

Figures obtained by BBC Radio 5 live have revealed that there were almost 8,000 arrests between March 2015 and April 2016 for drug driving.

New legislation was brought in in March 2015 in England and Wales cracking down on 17 illegal and prescription drugs, making it an offence to operate a vehicle whilst above the prescribed levels.

The 7,796 arrested people faced a driving ban of a minimum of one year, up to six months in prison, an unlimited fine and a criminal record.

The Department for Transport released a study suggesting that 25% of young drivers know of someone who has smoked cannabis before driving, and 11% know of someone who has driven under the influence of Class A drugs.

The new legislation covers eight illegal drugs as well as other prescription drugs used to treat such things as anxiety and pain relief. People using prescription drugs will not be penalised as long as they are within the recommended amounts and are following their doctors' advice.

For many years there has been a stigma attached to drink driving, however it is arguable that drug driving has not received the same attention. This new legislation combined with increased awareness that it is not just illegal substances that are prohibited, but even prescription medication when used incorrectly can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely.

MCE Insurance have a department which specialise in covering convicted drivers, for more information give us a call on 0844 338 68 60.

01.06.2016 - Big Ed

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