New drug driving law take effect…but what are the rules?

As from the 2^nd March 2015, a new drug driving law comes into force in order to tackle those who risk the lives of others by getting behind the wheel of a car after taking drugs. This legislation is not designed for those taking legitimate medicines that do not impair their ability to drive. The new law sets limits at very low levels for 8 drugs commonly associated with illegal use such as cannabis and cocaine. The new law also includes 8 prescription drugs.

The table below shows the illegal drugs and limits:

ILLEGAL DRUGS	THRESHOLD LIMIT IN BLOOD
Benzoylecgonine	50µg/L
Cocaine	10µg/L
delta-9-tetrahydrocannibinol (cannabis)	2µg/L
Ketamine	20µg/L
lysergic acid diethylamide	1µg/L
Methylamphetamine	10µg/L
MDMA	10µg/L
6-monoacetylmorphine (heroin)	5µg/L

The new law also includes drugs which are prescribed and used for medicinal purposes. The table below shows the medicinal drugs and limits:

MEDICINAL DRUGS	THRESHOLD LIMIT IN BLOOD
Amphetamine	250µg/L
Clonazepam	50µg/L
Diazepam	550µg/L
Flunitrazepam	300µg/L
Lorazepam	100µg/L
Methadone	500µg/L
Morphine	80µg/L
Oxazepam	300µg/L
Temazepam	1000µg/L

It is important to note that the limits which have been set for these drugs exceed normal prescribed doses, meaning that the vast majority of people can drive as per normal. However, these people must ensure that: 

•  They are taking their medicine in accordance with the advice given by a healthcare professional or via the instructions printed on the accompanying leaflet.
• They’re driving is not impaired.

If you are unsure of the effects of your medication it is best to seek expert advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Road safety group THINK! has suggested that drivers who take prescribed medication at high doses should carry evidence with them such as prescription slips. This is a great way to minimise any inconvenience should you be tested by the police.

So what are the penalties for drug driving?

If you are convicted of drug driving you will face:

•  A minimum 1 year driving ban

•  A fine of up to £5,000

• Up to a year in prison

• A criminal record

It is also important to be aware that your driving licence will show that you have been convicted of drug driving. This will stay on your records for 11 years.

In addition to these penalties, your insurance costs will increase significantly and may have difficulty travelling to countries such as the USA. Moreover, if you drive as a part of your job, your employer will also see your conviction on your licence.