Don’t put drugs in the driving seat

Drivers in West Yorkshire are being reminded not to put drugs in the driving seat.

The call comes as it can be revealed that 20 people were killed and 180 seriously injured in the county as a result of drivers under the influence of drugs over the last 5 years.

The region’s road safety partnership, West Yorkshire Vision Zero, have teamed up with THINK!, the government’s road safety campaign, to raise awareness of the stark consequences.

In the last year over 800 arrests were made for drug driving in West Yorkshire. 

Beyond the risks of killing or seriously injuring people, when caught, drug drivers risk a driving ban, a criminal record, an unlimited fine and even prison. 

These legal consequences have serious ramifications in life and can affect employment, insurance costs, entry to other countries, loss of independence and shame.

Roads Minister Justin Madders said:

“Everyone should feel safe on our roads. It is deeply upsetting to see that so many people in West Yorkshire have been killed or seriously injured as a result of motorists driving under the influence.

“Driving on drugs can ruin lives, it is senseless and selfish. This campaign sends a vital message that will keep our roads safer for everyone that uses them.

"We’re taking action - our first road safety strategy, the first in over a decade has consulted on tougher measures for people who take drugs and get behind the wheel."

Alison Lowe OBE, Chair of the West Yorkshire Vision Zero Board and Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, said:

“Were it not for drug drivers, 200 people would still be able to go about their lives. Instead, 20 people died and 180 have to live with serious consequences through injury.

“Each one of those people will have loved ones that are also deeply affected.

“Drug driving is a choice and a choice easily not made. So please think about the other people on the road, think about your loved ones and only drive when you’re safe to do so.”

Roads Policing Inspector, Claire Gray, said:

“Drug driving, like drink driving is easily avoidable.  One life lost on our roads is one too many and the consequences and effects are huge.  Please think about your decisions and actions and what can come of a result from a poor decision.”

Find out more about the campaign.