Driving for Work: Drink and Drugs
To coincide with the Anti Drink/Drug Driving Campaign that launched on 1st December, RoSPA Wales have produced their second ‘Driving for Work’ factsheet which this time focuses on drink and drug driving.
Driving for Work: Drink and DrugsAs the festive season approaches, and with the inevitable increase of office parties as well as family celebrations, there is a need to remind people of the dangers of drinking or taking drugs and then driving – including the morning after.
In 2014 there were 3015 convictions in Welsh Courts for drink/drug driving. With a minimum 12 month driving ban, an unlimited fine, and a criminal record this could have a significant effect on employees as well the companies they work for. Driving while unfit through drugs, whether illegal, prescribed or over-the-counter medicines, is an offence that carries the same penalties as drink driving. The Police can, and do, conduct roadside tests to help them assess whether a driver may be impaired.
On the factsheet, a list of some of the prescription drugs that could cause issues to someone who drives as part of their job have also been included. It’s illegal in England and Wales for someone to drive with legal drugs in their body if it impairs their driving. The advice is to check with a doctor if you have been prescribed any medication that may affect your ability to drive.
Copies of the ‘Driving for Work: Drink and Drugs’ factsheet are available from rpimm@rospa.com, along with ‘Driving for Work: Mobile Phones’.