RAC comments on introduction of new drug driving offence

“The introduction of this new offence sends out a clear message to users of banned substances that driving while under the influence is not acceptable and can now be detected with drugalyser devices. However, it has the potential to affect hundreds of thousands of people who use certain drugs for medicinal purposes. Motorists should keep copies of their prescriptions on them at all times, and discuss the effect of their medication with a doctor. They should also consult the doctor if their prescription is impairing their ability to drive. Even if drugs you are routinely taking have never impaired your driving, if you’re over the new limit for a particular drug and are caught, you will fall foul of the offence. So the message is – don’t risk it, check it.”