Murdo Fraser MSP has said he is “shocked” to discover the number of motorists in Mid Scotland and Fife who were stopped by Police Scotland on drug-related driving offences in the past two years.
Details supplied to the Scottish Conservatives through Freedom of Information show that there was a total of 331 such offences that took place in the region between January 1, 2023, and February 6 this year. Fife had the highest figures for drug-related driving offences, with 163 motorists being deemed to be driving a vehicle under the influence of a controlled drug above the prescribed limit during this period, compared to 96 in Perth and Kinross.
Fife also had a higher number of motorists caught by police who were deemed to be unfit to drive through either drink or drugs – 76 offences compared to 24 in Perth and Kinross.
Road Safety Scotland have stated that almost half of roadside drug tests are positive and have highlighted how Police Scotland now carry drug testing kits, which means they are able to carry out immediate roadside testing for any motorists suspected or drug driving.
Commenting, Mr Fraser said: “I am shocked to read of the very high number of motorists in Mid Scotland and Fife who have been caught by the police for drug-related driving offences. This data is very concerning indeed, and I am sure it will be replicated throughout Scotland.
“Motorists should remember that they face a fine of up to £5,000 if caught drug driving; a 12-month driving ban; up to six months in prison and that it is an offence that stays on your licence for 11 years. In some circumstances, those caught may even face losing their job as a result of this offence.”
Mr Fraser continued: “I hope this data is a wake-up call for some motorists who maybe consider driving after taking drugs. Road Safety Scotland have stated how many drugs can impair awareness, a driver’s judgement and also reaction times. It should also be remembered that drugs can still be detected in your system quite a few days after they have been taken.
“In addition, many prescription drugs can also make you drowsy and affect vision co-ordination and concentration.
“I fully back Police Scotland in their efforts to try to combat the rise in motorists who are caught drug driving. It is an issue that I will be keeping a careful eye on.”
