Driving poll highlights drugs risk

Published on Monday 8 August 2011 17:48

UP TO 70 per cent of motorists think not enough is being done to tackle the problem of drug-driving, according to a survey.

More than a third (37 per cent) of motorists believe drug-drivers are less likely to get caught than drink-drivers, the poll by Confused.com found.

A total of 5 per cent of the 2,000 drivers polled admitted to driving while under the influence of drugs. The figure rises to 8 per cent for 25 to 34-year-olds.

Those most likely to drink and drive were in the 45-54 age range, with 34 per cent admitting to the offence.

A total of 25 per cent of men and 18 per cent of women believed drug-driving was more widespread than drink-driving in the UK.

The poll also found that 28 per cent of those questioned admitted to drinking and driving, the figure rising to 38 per cent for men.

Confused.com chief marketing officer Mike Hoban said: "The government has been boasting about cutting public service advertising but it's clear people are concerned about the potential dangers of drug-driving.

"The government has a responsibility to let drivers know that the penalties are severe and that drug-drivers are a danger to themselves and to others."