The latest research from road safety charity IAM RoadSmart has uncovered a disturbing attitude among a large number of 17-24 year olds – that it’s no ‘biggie’ to get behind the wheel after taking Class A drugs such as cocaine or ecstasy.

What’s particularly concerning is that the age group is invariably made up of many new and sometimes learner drivers who have less experience out on the road compared to older groups. Research shows that this makes you more vulnerable as well as a potentially bigger threat to the road users before introducing drugs into the equation.

“Our research has found that a concerning number of motorists – especially young drivers – view getting behind the wheel under the influence of illegal substances as being okay.”

• William Porter, IAM RoadSmart

Growing trend

The IAM RoadSmart study found that while only 13% of all drivers see drug driving as acceptable, the figure shoots up to 22% among 17-34 year olds. Now compare that with older generations with only 4% of over 70s and 5% of those aged 50-69 holding a similar dangerous view.

Such a glib attitude to drug driving from younger drivers possibly explains the deeply concerning trend that’s been growing across the UK in recent years. Casualties killed with drugs in their system stood at 2,500 in 2021. That represents a massive 260% increase since 2012, according to Department for Transport data.

“We need to make it clear that driving under the influence, whether it’s alcohol or drugs, is completely unacceptable and puts everyone at risk.”

• William Porter, IAM RoadSmart

Over the counter

It’s not just illegal drugs that are a cause for concern either. Many drivers underestimate the dangers of driving under the influence of prescription medication.

For instance, 30% of all drivers believe driving on prescription drugs poses only a minor threat – or no threat at all. However, many meds can impair your judgement as well as reduce reaction times.

Changing attitudes

To combat the growing issue of drug-driving, IAM RoadSmart recommends:

  • Introducing greater police presence on our roads to enforce existing drug-driving laws.
  • Raising public awareness of the dangers of drug driving through targeted campaigns and educational initiatives in schools.
  • Increasing funding and resources for drug-driving rehabilitation courses to help offenders.

Be aware

Our advice is simple: Whatever substance you have consumed on your day in or night out – legal or otherwise – don’t get behind the wheel. You’re endangering yourself, your passengers and other road users.

Remember, if you are caught by the police before you manage to do any damage, you can expect to have the book thrown at you. For instance:

  • Minimum 1-year driving ban
  • Up to six months in prison
  • Criminal record/unlimited fine
  • On your licence for up to 11 years.

Also, if you’re caught drug-driving within the first two years of passing your driving test, your driving licence will be revoked – and you’ll have to take your theory and practical driving tests all over again.

And if you do manage to re-qualify after all that, good luck trying to get insurance to drive anything with four wheels.

“Social acceptability of drink-driving took generations to change, and we must be clear that we will be as intolerant of drug-drivers as we are drink-drivers.”

• William Porter, IAM RoadSmart

Know Your Code

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