All drivers must surely be aware by now that drug driving is just as dangerous as drink driving and as such carries equally harsh penalties for those who are caught. There is still a substantial hard core of drivers who think they can get away with it. They convince themselves that there’s nothing wrong in what they are doing. However once you have a conviction for drug driving you’ll find that you need to look into obtaining drug driving insurance in order to continue driving legally. Read on to find out exactly what effect taking drugs has on your driving.
What do substances do to your brain?
Unlike alcohol different drugs have differing effects on the body and on the brain. Marijuana has the effect of slowing down your reaction time and coordination skills as well as skewing your ability to judge time and distance. Drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine on the other hand can cause you to become more aggressive and reckless and more likely to become involved in ‘road rage’ situations. Certain over the counter medications like antihistamines can cause drowsiness and slower reaction times whilst opiate-based prescription painkillers like Cocodamol or Tramadol can have the same effect. Combined with alcohol as drugs so often are it’s obvious that the results can be devastating for you, your passengers and anyone unfortunate enough to get in your way.
And what does it do to your driving
Any kind of drug that causes changes in the brain, or mind-altering effects, will change how you view your surroundings, how you react to any hazards you encounter, and ultimately how you drive. Studies have shown that when you take marijuana or sedative type drugs like benzodiazepines your perception of the road around you slows down and you are more likely to be seen weaving all over the road. Users of cocaine or ‘speed’ are more likely to drive at excessive speeds. Either way, this kind of driving is guaranteed to draw the attention of any passing road traffic police and more likely than not result in you getting a DG10 endorsement on your driving license.
If you are an occasional drug user, on medication for example, the wisest thing is to take steps to avoid driving whilst under the influence. Arrange for taxis and rides home with a designated driver from parties and nights out. That way you’ll avoid the possibility of crashing and you’ll save your driving license. If you are unlucky enough to have a DG10 conviction then speak to someone about arranging DG10 insurance cover.