Drugs and Driving: A Mix That Can Be Fatal

Drug use and driving don't mix, and the consequences can be dramatic. Every year, more than 700 people are killed on the roads in accidents involving a driver under the influence of drugs, which accounts for one in five fatal accidents. Despite this, the effects of drugs and driving are often downplayed by drivers, with potentially tragic consequences. Not only is drug use illegal, it also poses a real danger to yourself and other road users.

The effects of drugs on driving

Each type of drug affects driving ability differently:

• Cannabis causes drowsiness, slows coordination of movements, slows reaction time, and impairs vision and hearing.

• Ecstasy masks feelings of fatigue, impairs mental abilities and gives a false sense of control, promoting irrational behavior.

• Cocaine causes aggressive driving, impaired attention and judgment, which can lead to loss of vehicle control.

• Opiates (such as opium and morphine) reduce alertness, slow rapid decision-making, and diminish awareness of danger.

• Hallucinogenic drugs (LSD, Psilocybe mushrooms, mescaline) cause perceptual disturbances, illusions, and feelings of confusion or anxiety, which can lead to a panic attack.

These effects seriously compromise the ability to respond appropriately to road events, significantly increasing the risk of serious accidents.

Heavy sanctions

Driving under the influence of drugs carries severe penalties. If tested positive, drivers risk up to two years in prison and a fine of €4,500, as well as the loss of six points on their driving licence. In the event of a repeat offence or if consumption is combined with alcohol, penalties can reach three years in prison and a fine of €9,000, with confiscation of the vehicle and cancellation of the driving licence.

In addition, insurers can also take action against drivers involved in an accident while under the influence of drugs, including increasing premiums, terminating the insurance contract, or reducing compensation.

Increasingly frequent checks

Law enforcement officers, during road checks, can carry out drug tests, even in the absence of an accident or offence. These tests, often saliva tests, are capable of detecting substances such as cannabis, cocaine, opiates and ecstasy in a few minutes. In the event of fatal or bodily accidents, these tests are systematic and mandatory, involving all drivers, including cyclists and scooter users.

Refusing to submit to these tests carries the same penalties as a positive test.

Risk multiplied in the presence of alcohol

The combined use of cannabis and alcohol increases the risk of causing a fatal accident by 29 times. In fact, both substances have separately dangerous effects on driving, and their combination amplifies them exponentially.

Safe Alternatives: Never Take the Risk

To avoid the risks associated with drugged driving, it is essential to consider safe alternatives. If you have used drugs, even a small amount, it is best to find another way to get home. Here are some options to consider:

Designate a sober driver : Before you go out, choose someone who will not use drugs or alcohol to be your designated driver.

Use public transportation : Public transportation is a safe and convenient alternative, especially if you plan to consume.

Hire a taxi or rideshare service : Rideshare apps or taxis are available in most urban areas, offering an easy solution to avoid getting behind the wheel.

Stay put : If possible, stay put until you are fit to drive again, ensuring the drug is completely out of your system.

The importance of awareness

Prevention is about awareness. It is crucial that everyone is aware of the dangers of drug driving and the potentially devastating impact on their own lives, those of passengers, and other road users. Regular awareness campaigns, as well as education for young drivers, can help reduce the incidence of these dangerous behaviours.

As a committed player in prevention, AMA Prevention strives to provide effective solutions to promote road safety. By offering reliable screening tests, AMA Prevention helps individuals and businesses make informed decisions and avoid putting their lives and those of others at risk. Prevention is the key to a safer future, where roads are less deadly and driving is responsible.

To learn more about our screening solutions, visit our website or contact our customer service for personalized advice.