Young drivers drug driving campaign

As we've all seen recently, life can change pretty fast, but when it comes to drug-driving things have not changed one bit. Driving under the influence of drugs can destroy lives. It stops your body working properly, and it can get you locked up.

Young drivers drug driving related content

Driving under the influence of drugs

Since October 2019, Police Scotland is able to carry out immediate roadside testing for any driver they suspect of drug-driving. So, don’t drive under the influence of drugs; Arrive Alive.

The test

Police in Scotland can carry out immediate roadside testing using a ‘Drug Wipe’.

Drivers found to be under the influence of drugs will be arrested, taken to a nearby police station and required to provide a blood sample, which will be sent to a lab for analysis.

CRASH AND YOU’LL NO BE ABLE TO COME ROUND FOR MY MINCE AND TATTIES

Reporting drug-driving

If you see someone getting into their car to drive after taking drugs, you should take action.

If you feel safe and confident enough to do so, suggest that they choose an alternative way of getting where they’re going, or if you are in any doubt over their safety to drive, phone the police.

Before dialling the police, make sure you have noted:

  • The car registration number
  • A description of the vehicle
  • A description of the person
  • The location

Did you know?

  • Most drugs stay in your system longer than alcohol – traces of some drugs will still show up in blood tests after 4-5 days.
  • Exactly how long a drug remains in your system depends on the type of drug and variables like your age, weight, hydration levels and drug tolerance. Some heavy drug users will always have drugs in their system.
  • Remember, it’s an offence to drive if you have over the specified limit of certain drugs in your blood. This is true even if you have been prescribed the drugs by a doctor.  Remember, over-the-counter drugs can also affect your ability to drive. If you’re taking medicine and not sure whether you should drive, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or a healthcare professional.
  • Taking alcohol and drugs together is even worse, as their effects combine and the risk can be multiplied. Even low levels of alcohol mixed with low levels of drugs can cause significant danger. The best approach is none.
  • It’s your responsibility to consider whether you believe your driving is, or might be, impaired on any given occasion, for example if you feel sleepy.
  • Other road users including pedestrians, wheelers, cyclists and horse riders are even more vulnerable so don’t put them at risk by drug-driving.
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