South Wales Police arrested 350 motorists for drug-driving in the last 12 months
ARRESTS for driving under the influence of drugs in South Wales have jumped by almost 200 per cent in a year following a change in the law, figures show.
On March 2, 2015 legal limits for motorists for a range of controlled drugs were introduced, along with roadside swab-tests for police to use.
In the year since the introduction, South Wales Police have arrested 350 drug-drivers — up from 120 the year before.
South Wales Police chief inspector Martyn Stone: "Drug-driving is a serious crime, it threatens life and can cause suffering to many.
"South Wales Police will be distributing literature to officers, staff and the community about the campaign to raise awareness about this important issue.
The penalties for drug driving are the same as for a drink driving. If a person is convicted they could face a minimum of 12 months driving ban, a criminal record, an unlimited fine, up to six months in prison and an endorsement on their driving licence for 11 years.
"The consequences of being convicted of drug driving are far greater than first realised, can include job loss, personal shame, increase in car insurance cost and travel restrictions to certain countries."
Police can test drivers with a simple road-side swab
The drug-drive law changes in Wales and England have made it illegal to drive with 17 controlled drugs above a specified limit in the blood. It remains an offence to drive while impaired, by any drug at any amount.
Even if a driver passes the roadside test he or she can still be arrested if the officer suspects that the driver is impaired by drugs.
Drugs that can be tested for at the roadside are cannabis and cocaine, while the evidential laboratory test can identify all the drugs covered by the law including ecstasy, LSD and heroin.
Limits for a number of prescription drugs such as temazepam and tramadol were also introduced.
To mark the first anniversary of the new law, a public-awareness campaign is being launched on social media, cinema screens and radio.
Read more: http://www.southwales-eveningpost.co.uk/350-drug-drivers-arrested-South-Wales-new-laws/story-28838023-detail/story.html#ixzz41jeJfQhU
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