Drug-related deaths have increased by 164 percent in the past decade, with cocaine and cannabis the most common

Deaths from drug-driving have risen by 164 percent in the past decade, official data shows.

Drug-related deaths now account for eight percent of road fatalities, with cocaine and cannabis the most common substances.

Analysis of the latest data on road casualties in Britain shows that there were 47 drug-related fatalities in 2014, but this number had risen to 124 by 2023.

According to government data, there was a 38 percent increase in drug-related fatalities in just 12 months between 2022 and 2023.

Drivers between the ages of 20 and 29 were the most likely to test positive for illicit drugs – an age group that also has a higher prevalence of drug use.

During the period studied, cocaine, benzoylecgonine, cannabis, morphine and ketamine were the most common drugs found in deceased drivers

Cocaine – used by 5.1 percent of people aged 16 to 24 – is a powerful simulant that can impair people’s judgment, leading to reckless confidence

Direct Line Motor Insurance’s analysis shows that the total number of collisions attributed to drink-driving has increased by 170 percent in less than a decade, from 684 in 2014 to 1,853 in 2023.

In the 12 months to March 2023, around 3.1 million people aged 16 to 59 (9.5 per cent of the population) reportedly used illicit drugs in England and Wales, which could explain the dramatic increase in illicit drug use to declare. accidents caused by people driving while under the influence of drugs.

However, the prevalence of drug use was higher among people aged 16 to 24 during the same period, with approximately 1 million people (17.6 percent of the population) reporting some drug use.

During the period studied, cocaine, benzoylecgonine, cannabis, morphine and ketamine were the most common drugs found in deceased drivers.

Cocaine – used by 5.1 percent of people aged 16 to 24 – is a powerful simulant that can impair people’s judgment, leading to reckless self-confidence.

Cannabis – the most commonly used drug in England and Wales and used by 15.4 per cent of people aged 16 to 24 – can slow reaction times, reduce coordination and distort people’s perception of the road.

Matt Pernet, head of Direct Line Motor Insurance, said: ‘Anyone who gets behind the wheel after taking illegal drugs is making a terrible decision, which could have life-changing consequences for themselves and other road users.

‘Although there is a common misconception that some illegal drugs can keep you alert, consumption is not only illegal but can significantly affect driving ability.

‘As well as using illegal drugs, it is also illegal in England, Scotland and Wales to drive after taking legal prescription medicines if this impairs your driving.

‘The penalties range from a minimum driving ban of one year, fines, a maximum of six months in prison and a criminal record.’