Drug driving is a problem throughout the country. At least 18
per cent of people killed in road traffic collisions have
traces of illegal drugs in their blood.
In Cheshire we are well equipped when dealing with drug drivers.
Cheshire Police were the first force in the region to set up a
specialist team to tackle impaired and drug driving.
Cheshire officers Robbie Burns and Andy Taylor are the region's
first fully qualified drug recognition experts.
Together they are responsible for training other officers
throughout the country in Fitness Impairment Testing, also known as
the FIT test.
See Cheshire Police carrying out a FIT test here :
http://www.youtube.com/cheshirepolice#p/u/2/NqywY243ah0
The penalties
The penalties for driving under the influence of drugs are the
same as they are for drink driving. Anyone caught drug driving will
receive:
- A minimum 12-month driving ban
- A criminal record
- A fine of up to £5000
Furthermore:
- There will be a specific record on the driving licence for
eleven years that details a conviction for drug driving
- If the driver is convicted of causing death by dangerous
driving, they will receive a prison sentence of up to fourteen
years
- If they drive for work their employer will see the conviction
when they have to produce their licence
- Car insurance will increase significantly
- Any drug-related conviction may mean encountering difficulties
getting permission to enter countries such as the USA
The consequences