Seminar reveals startling drug driving facts

On the day that the Government changed the law relating to cannabis, South Gloucestershire Council’s road safety team was taking action to try and ensure that the relaxation of the law does not cause more death on the road in its region.

Road safety professionals from local authorities across the south and southwest - from as far afield as Cornwall and Hampshire - gathered at the Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre to learn more about the danger of drug driving at a seminar organised by the South Gloucestershire team.

Lecturer Liam Watson, who works at the University of the West of England and is an advisor to the Metropolitan Police, gave a series of startling facts regarding drug users who drive.

For example, he said that 74 per cent of cannabis users drive while under the influence – and that the drug stays in the system for up to seven days in a casual user and 30 days in a heavy user. Crucially, while in the system it has the effect of significantly slowing a driver’s reaction time.

Liam Watson added that one in four drivers killed in traffic collisions is under the influence of illegal drugs and - most worrying for parents - young people are twice as likely to be driven by someone on drugs than under the influence of alcohol.

"The information we received disturbed all present," said Alan Hale, South Gloucestershire’s senior RSO. "We were reminded that people can be driving while impaired on prescribed and 'over the counter' drugs.

"We urge people not drive if they have taken illegal drugs -and those taking legal drugs to take medical advice to be sure that their driving will not be adversely affected."

For further information contact Alan Hale, Alan.Hale@southglos.gov.uk