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Driving under the influence of drugs

November 2006

The detrimental influence of alcohol on the ability to drive safely is proven. The BMA recognises that a similar problem also exists in relation to the influence of drugs (both illegal and prescribed) on driving skills.

Introduction
In 2001, The BMA was asked at their ARM (Annual Representatives Meeting) to consider ways of supporting the police in their fight against Drug Driving by raising awareness and educating the public of its potential dangers. In response, a brief detailing the actions the BMA would like the government to take was written. To coincide with the launch of this initiative, David Kidney (Labour MP for Stafford) tabled an Early Day Motion on 12 March 2002 that received cross party support. The motion welcomed the BMA's web resource and re-iterated the BMA's call for research on testing devices and a public awareness campaign. An EDM is an opportunity to raise awareness of an issue in the Commons, but is not usually debated.

The BMA’s role in all issues concerning drug driving revolve firstly around education, undertaking campaigns to educate the public about the side effects of illegal and certain prescribed drugs and how they can affect their ability to drive. Secondly, the BMA works to ensure speedier and more specific and co-ordinated research to establish appropriate drug testing devices. At the end of this document is a summary of the BMA’s policies towards drug driving.

The BMA will be keeping a rolling review of work being undertaken in this area and will update this website accordingly.