New report finds 400 people arrested for drug-driving per month
The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has revealed the number of arrests from drug-driving in England and Wales since new laws were put into place on 2 March this year,with numbers indicating an average of 400 arrests per month.
The report, based on a Freedom of Information request made by the IAM to police departments in each area of England and Wales, reveals the total number of arrests has reached 902 making the average amount of arrests equivalent to one arrest every three days.
Findings have also shown inconsistency in comparison of areas where some police forces have made as many as 200 arrests where as others have made none at all.
The Metropolitan Police recorded the highest number of arrests, with 214 in just over two months which equates to three drivers every day since the law was changed. At the other end of the spectrum, forces in Leicestershire and Warwickshire have yet to make an arrest.
Sarah Sillars, IAM chief executive officer, said: “I am sure the majority of law abiding drivers would like to know why there is such a variation in the data we have received from police forces. It would be unfortunate if some people got the idea that some areas are softer on drug-driving than others.
“We have reached a point where drink-driving has become socially unacceptable, particularly amongst younger people. We now need a sustained campaign to back up the police enforcement effort and ensure drug-driving is seen in exactly the same way. The effects of driving under the influence of drugs can be devastating.” she finished.
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