Drug Driving is set to become a criminal offence. Proposed under the Crime, Communications and Court Bill, drug driving will become a specific offence where offenders will face up to 6 month imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £5,000 as well as an automatic driving ban of at least 12 months.
Police will carry a handheld drug detection devices, which will take a saliva sample. Motorists who fail will the test will be taken to a police station and screened by a second calibrated machine, proving evidence to be used in court.
The machines are expected to receive approval from the Home Office by the end of the year.
Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said: “Drug drivers are a deadly menace – they must be stopped and that is exactly what I intend to do.
“The new offence sends out a clear message that if you drive whilst under the influence of drugs you will not get away with it.
“We have an enviable record on road safety in this country and I want to keep it that way.
“This measure will help to rid our roads of the irresponsible minority who would risk the lives of innocent motorists and pedestrians.”
Take a look at our Motoring Offence website to find out more about
May, 08, 2012