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Motorists warned of drug driving threat

One in five UK motorists has driven shortly after taking drugs, highlighting an issue that many had previously considered insignificant next to drink driving.

Research from More Than Car Insurance revealed that some 20 per cent of UK drivers have got behind the wheel of the car while under the influence of drugs, while 38 per cent believed the drugs had no effect on them.

The dangers to the public and the driver themselves of drink driving are well known, but certain drugs can have just as devastating effect on an individual's driving ability.

But while law abiding motorists might want to take out more comprehensive car insurance on the results, it is not just the public that needs to fear.

Calls are now growing for road-side drug tests to be introduced along the lines of breathalysers already in service.

Such devices are already used across Europe in countries such as Germany and Switzerland.

Mike Holliday-Williams, director of More Than Insurance, said: "Drug driving presents a serious risk not only to those who choose to do it, but also to other motorists on the road.

"For this reason it is vitally important that highly effective measures are put in place as quickly as possible to crack down on offenders."

Drink and drug driving invariably raise car insurance premiums, making getting cover exorbitantly expensive, particularly for young drivers.

Driving convictions of this nature can also prevent drivers from being able to take out comprehensive car insurance cover, leaving them vulnerable if they are responsible for an accident.