400 people a month arrested for drug-driving

IAM reveals the true scale of drug driving in England and Wales since new drug-drive laws came into force

400 people a month arrested for drug-driving
A Freedom of Information request has found that 902 drug-drive arrests have been made in England and Wales since the new laws were introduced.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has found that over 400 people a month have been arrested for drug-driving following a Freedom of Information request to police forces in England and Wales.

The findings show that police arrested almost one person every three days on average for breaching new drug-drive laws.

The Metropolitan Police recorded the highest number of arrests, with 214 in just over two months which equates to three drivers every day since the law was changed.

Sarah Sillars, IAM chief executive officer, said: “It is very clear from our survey that the new drug driving law has just scratched the surface of a much bigger issue.

“We have reached a point where drug-driving has become socially unacceptable, particularly amongst younger people. The effects of driving under the influence of drugs can be devastating.”

The new laws introduced in England and Wales in March set low limits for eight drugs commonly associated with illegal use, such as cannabis and cocaine.

Eight prescription drugs were also included within the new law including diazepam, methadone and morphine.

Police are able to use a ‘drugalyser’ to screen for cannabis and cocaine at the roadside.

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