The growing crisis of drug-driving must be prioritised to tackle increasing numbers of casualties on Britain’s roads.

Drug-driving collisions and casualties have gone up by over 260% in the last decade, and convictions are now at over 12,000 a year

IAM RoadSmart said collisions and casualties have gone up by over 260% in the last decade, and convictions are now at over 12,000 a year.

And while the Government has made some positive changes in recent years, such as roadside testing, there is still a long way to go, according to the road safety charity.

It’s calling for drug-driving to be reprioritised as a standalone issue and for an in-depth investigation to be conducted, looking at all variables of impact and underlying issues that lead to the offence – recognising that it is a distinct issue from drink-driving.

Key recommendations include tackling the risks of reoffending. Nearly half (44%) of offences are committed by previous offenders, mostly within one year, and while a consultation last year explored whether drug drivers should be required to undertake rehabilitation courses before being allowed back behind the wheel, the results haven’t been announced.

The IAM is also calling for development of a rehabilitation option for drug-driving, with a particular focus on illegal substances, that is effective in reducing reoffences.

CEO Anthony Kildare said: “As a road safety charity, dedicated to making the roads as safe as possible for all, we have seen success with other rehabilitation courses – with speeding courses, reoffending is as low as 5% (IPSOS), and with a drink-driving course, reoffences are at 17%. We believe a standalone drug-driving awareness course would help drastically reduce the overall number of offences and casualties, and help educate drivers about the potential risks on the road.”

And it says it wants to work with partners, in government and the health sector, to raise awareness and advise on how prescribed medications can have an impact on a driver’s judgement while behind the wheel.

Kildare added: “The Government needs to refocus on the issue and find an effective and sustainable solution that can address the complexities of these offences, to reduce the dangers to stop the casualties on our roads increasing any further.”