While most people wouldn't even consider using drugs, let alone drive or ride a vehicle afterwards, unfortunately a small minority of people choose to put themselves and others at risk.
Many people are already aware that it is an offence to drive with certain drugs above a specified level in your blood - just as it is with drink driving.
It’s illegal to drive if either:
- you’re unfit to do so because you’re on legal or illegal drugs
- you have certain levels of illegal drugs in your blood (even if they have not affected your driving)
Please talk to your doctor about whether you should drive or ride a vehicle if you’ve been prescribed any of the following drugs:
- amphetamine (for example dexamphetamine or selegiline)
- clonazepam
- diazepam
- flunitrazepam
- lorazepam
- methadone
- morphine or opiate and opioid-based drugs (for example codeine, tramadol or fentanyl)
- oxazepam
- temazepam
Be aware that you could be prosecuted if you drive or ride with certain levels of these drugs in your body and you have not been prescribed them.
The limits for all illegal drugs are extremely low – taking even a very small amount of an illegal drug could put you over the limit.
The consequences
The penalties for drug driving are the same as for drink driving:
- A minimum 12-month driving ban
- an unlimited fine
- up to 6 months in prison
- a criminal record
Never accept a lift from someone you know has been using drugs. If a neighbour, friend or relative decides to take the risk and drive or ride after consuming drugs, please contact the police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. You can also report them anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. By doing so, you could save their life and the lives of another innocent road user.