Drug Laws
A new drug driving law comes into force on 2nd March 2015 which makes it an offence to drive with certain drugs in a person’s system which are over the specified limit.
A person who is Prosecuted under the new law can expect to receive at least a 12 month disqualification from driving, a fine of up to £5000 and up to 6 months in prison.
Abusers of prescription medication
1. Abusers of prescription medication, or users of illegal drugs can now be prosecuted if they drive with excessive levels of the substance in their system without the need for the Prosecution to prove any level of impairment to drive.
Previously, the prosecution would need to show that the person had taken a substance, and that the substance had impaired their ability to drive. This law will continue to exist, however a person can be convicted under the new legislation without any impairment to their driving being evidenced. A positive sample above the specified limit will be sufficient.
Drugalizers
2. New “drugalizers” have been commissioned throughout the UK which are able to detect the presence of cocaine and cannabis at the roadside.
Previously, suspicion of drug use would be evidenced by impairment such as unusual appearance in pupil size, and a lack of co-ordination. Under the new law however, a positive roadside sample on a roadside testing device will be enough to bring a person to a police station and require an evidential blood sample.
What drugs are covered under the new law and what are the limits per litre of blood?
Limits
The specified limits for all substances per litre of blood are as follows:
• Benzoylecgonine 50
• Clonazepam 50
• Cocaine 10
• Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol 2
• Diazepam 550
• Flunitrazepam 300
• Ketamine 20
• Lorazepam 100
• Lysergic Acid Diethylamide 1
• Methadone 500
• Methylamphetamine 10
• Methylenedioxymethamphetamine 10
• 6-Monoacetylmorphine 5
• Morphine 80
• Oxazepam 300
• Temazepam 1000
The government is clamping down on drug drivers, and is making it much easier for a person to be found guilty when found to be drug driving.
Drug driving has now become a major issue. If you or a loved one are struggling with a drug problem we can help. We have drug rehab and detox centres available all over the UK. It has never been easier or more affordable (funding available) to get help. You do not have to suffer any longer. Call our team now for more details.
Penalties for drug driving
If you’re convicted of drug driving you’ll get:
- a minimum 1 year driving ban
- an unlimited fine
- up to 6 months in prison
- a criminal record
Your driving licence will also show you’ve been convicted for drug driving. This will last for 11 years.
Our team is here 24 hours a day, and offers free help and advice to anyone of any age. So whether it is about, you or a loved one who is suffering from an drug addiction, Call our team now on Telephone 07811 606 606 for help and details of a centre near you.