New research from the Department of Transport (DfT) has found that drug driving-related collisions have soared in the last decade.
The latest figures show that drug driving-related crashes surged from 684 in 2014 to 1,853 in 2023, while fatalities climbed from 47 to 124 in the same period – a 164% increase.
According to data from Direct Line motor insurance, some 8% of road fatalities last year were the result of drug driving.
The drugs most often found in deceased drivers during this time were cocaine, benzoylecgonine, cannabis, morphine and ketamine.
Driving under the influence of cannabis can reduce a driver’s focus, judgement, coordination and reaction time. Driving under the influence of cocaine can impair decision-making and create a sense of invisibility that makes motorists dangerous, overconfident and risky.
Amongst deceased individuals, the age groups most likely to test positive for illegal drugs were 20-29 years and 30-39 years.
Between March 2022 and March 2023, around 3.1 million individuals between 16 and 59 were reported to be using illegal drugs.
Even legal and prescription drugs may impair driving, and it is illegal to drive under the influence of any medication that does so. Motorists caught driving under the influence may face fines, a driving ban, or even a prison sentence and a criminal record.
Head of Direct Line Motor Insurance, Matt Pernet, 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.”
