An increasing number of people are driving under the influence of drugs such as cannabis and cocaine, according to one of the UK’s top police officers. Chief Constable Jo Shiner of the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) highlighted a growing social acceptance of drug use, particularly among younger people.
Recent data from a national roadside testing campaign in December revealed that 48.5% of drug tests were positive, compared to 9.5% of breath tests for alcohol. Some police forces, including Merseyside, Hampshire & Isle of Wight, Thames Valley, Greater Manchester, Sussex, and North Wales, reported more arrests for drug-driving than drink-driving during this period.
Merseyside Police, for instance, noted that drug-driving is “highly prevalent” and often results in more arrests than drink-driving. During a recent roadside operation in Liverpool, preliminary tests detected cannabis or cocaine in three drivers within half an hour. These individuals, who were not over the alcohol limit, were arrested and taken into custody for further testing.
Chief Inspector Gavin Dixon of Merseyside Police explained that many drivers underestimate how long drugs stay in their systems and do not realise the extent of police enforcement. He reported a significant increase in drug-driving arrests over the past few years, with 2,700 arrests last year, one of the highest figures in the country.
The devastating impact of drug-driving was poignantly illustrated by Summer Mace, a 24-year-old trainee teacher from King’s Lynn. In January last year, her mother, sister, and stepfather were killed in a collision caused by a driver under the influence of illegal drugs. Mace called for harsher sentences to deter drug-driving, expressing frustration that current penalties are insufficient.
Katie Morris, whose partner Sam was killed in a drug-driving collision, echoed these sentiments. She believes that causing death while driving under the influence should be treated as manslaughter, advocating for tougher laws to prevent similar tragedies.
Chief Constable Shiner and other police leaders have called for stronger penalties for drug-driving offences, particularly those resulting in serious injury or death. A government spokesperson affirmed the commitment to rigorous enforcement and tough penalties, noting that causing death by careless driving under the influence can now result in a life sentence.
As the NPCC continues to tackle drug-driving, the focus remains on both enforcement and public education to reduce the incidence of this dangerous behaviour.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
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