Illicit drugs and driving

This report looks at illegal drug use by 17 -39 year old drivers in Scotland, and considers the reasons for driving while impaired, and some implications. Over a third of the people interviewed admitted ever using drugs. Taking under-reporting into account, it was estimated that up to sixteen per cent had done so in the previous twelve months. Drug use was more likely among men, 20-24 year olds and 30-34 year olds, and those living alone. Cannabis use was most prevalent. Up to eleven per cent were estimated to have driven while they might have been impaired. Impairment was no more likely to be reported by men than women, and there were no clear age trends. Single people were more likely to have driven under the influence. Respondents explained their behaviour by the positive incentive of using their own transport and by the lack of deterrent: they do not believe their own driving to be adversely affected. There was a relationship between drug driving and other risky driving. Many drivers were concerned about other people's drug driving and would welcome more reliable testing. Implications of the research include targeting campaigns at single men, linking driving campaigns, increasing awareness of risks and having more effective police presence.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/0755960920
• Authors:
  • MYANT, K
  • HOPE, S
  • MCINTOSH, J
  • O'BRIEN, T
  • MCKEGANEY, N
  • STRADLING, S
• Publication Date: 2006

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: 61p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Attitudes; Behavior; Drivers; Drugs; Police; Publicity; Tests; Trend (Statistics)
• Geographic Terms: United Kingdom
• Subject Areas: Security and Emergencies; I83: Accidents and the Human Factor;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01117110
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: TRL
• ISBN: 0755960920
• Files: ITRD
• Created Date: Dec 22 2008 9:31AM