Drink Driving, Drugs and Mobile Phones – Do You Know the Law?

A drink after work or with friends, texting to say you're home late from a shopping trip or driving the morning after a big party - as we approach the festive season, it is essential to stay safe on the roads and remember the law.

Drug taking and driving is now a major concern with new drug driving legislation recently introduced, making it illegal for motorists in the UK to drive with certain drugs in their system, above specific levels. There are several drugs on the list - please view our page on Motor Offences for the list of prohibited drugs.

Section 11 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 states that a drug includes any intoxicant other than alcohol. This is likely to mean any substance that affects the self-control of the body.

The law makes it much easier for police to catch a drug driver, as they now have improved testing equipment such as roadside saliva tests which work in the same way as breathalysers.

Drug driving penalties are complex and it is paramount that you obtain specialist advice from a highly experienced solicitor. Our expert solicitor, Andrew Murray, has years of experience in representing clients in Court and can advise you on the options available in these cases.

Even if you have a nap or sit in a car whilst under the influence of alcohol, you can face serious penalties even though you haven't driven or attempted to drive.

Don't be tempted to text whilst sat at traffic lights or queuing in traffic as you could get fined £1,000 and six points on your licence. Even supervising a learner driver and using your phone is illegal.

For further information on motor offences and how we can help you, please view our webpage on Motor Offences.

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Please note that the information and opinions contained in this article are not intended to be comprehensive, nor to provide legal advice. No responsibility for its accuracy or correctness is assumed by Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd or any of its members or employees. Professional legal advice should be obtained before taking, or refraining from taking, any action as a result of this article.

This blog was posted some time ago and its contents may now be out of date. For the latest legal position relating to these issues, get in touch with the author - or make an enquiry now.