This Christmas, Norfolk Police are supporting THINK!’s new campaign highlighting the impact drug driving can have on your night, your life and your future.
Nationally, between 2014 and 2023, there was a 70% increase in driver fatalities where drugs were a factor. Around 90% of drivers impaired by drugs in collisions are men, putting them at a higher risk.
We will be conducting roadside drug tests across the county this month. It is important to remember that drugs stay in your system longer than you think. It could be days later and you will still fail a police drug test. You may feel fine but your focus and judgement is affected.
Although we are specifically highlighting the effects of drug driving, we continue to work to eliminate anyone driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Roads policing officers will be breathalysing every single driver they stop during the campaign.
The penalties for drug driving are the same as for drink driving. If you are convicted, you could face:
a minimum 12-month driving ban
a criminal record
an unlimited fine
up to 6 months in prison
an endorsement on your driving license for 11 years
The maximum penalty for causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drugs or drink is life in prison, with a minimum driving ban of five years.
The consequences of driving under the influence are not only legal. Losing your licence has a huge impact on your life. If you drive for work, you could lose your job, your car insurance costs will increase and you could have trouble entering other countries such as the USA.
Inspector Will Drummond, of the joint Roads and Armed Policing team said: “32% of young men think it is ok to drive after taking drugs if you feel fine – it is my hope that this campaign explains exactly why that is not the case.
“Our annual message does not change – do not drive under the influence. You have a responsibility to keep yourself and other road users safe. Do not put their lives at risk, it is not only your Christmas you could be ruining.”
We understand that you may be close to someone who regularly gets behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol and this can make it difficult to speak to police. In Norfolk, you can report drink and drug driving anonymously through our online form.
