Drug-driving fatalities up 164 per cent in a decade
Fatalities linked to drug driving on UK roads have increased by 164 per cent in less than a decade, from 47 in 2014 to 124 in 2023, reveals analysis of new Government data by Direct Line Motor Insurance.
Drug driving deaths accounted for eight per cent of all road fatalities last year (2023: 1,624 total fatalities).
The analysis revealed an increase in overall collisions attributed to drug driving, up 170 per cent in less than a decade, from 684 in 2014 to 1,853 in 2023. Over the period analysed cocaine, benzoylecgonine, cannabis, morphine and ketamine were the most common drugs detected in deceased drivers. A powerful stimulant, cocaine, can impair people’s judgement leading to reckless overconfidence, while cannabis can slow reaction time, reduce coordination, and distort people’s perception of the road. The most common age group for deceased drivers to test positive for illegal drugs was 20-29, followed by those aged 30-39.
In the 12 months to the year ending March 2023, approximately 3.1m (9.5 per cent) of those aged 16 to 59 were reported to be using illicit drugs, with such widespread use helping account for the number of accidents caused by people driving whilst impaired by drugs rising steadily. Drugs, whether legal or prescription medication, can impact a driver in a variety of ways including one’s ability to judge distances, and reaction times, lead to blurry or impaired vision, aggression, erratic behaviour, hallucinations, dizziness and nausea.
Matt Pernet, Head of Direct Line Motor Insurance said: “Anyone that gets behind the wheel after taking illegal drugs is making a terrible decision, which can have life-altering consequences for themselves and other road users. While there is a common misconception that some illegal drugs can keep you alert, consumption is not only illegal, but can also impact driving abilities significantly.
“Alongside taking illegal drugs, it is also illegal in England, Scotland and Wales to drive after taking legal prescription medication, if it impairs your driving. Penalties vary from a minimum of a year driving ban, fines, up to six months in prison and a criminal record. Car insurance costs will also significantly increase so speak to your doctor or pharmacist before getting behind the wheel when taking medication.”