The Law
Driving on benzodiazepines and other similar drugs.
Approach
The Government decided to take a zero-tolerance approach to 8 drugs most associated with illegal use and have also decided to take a road safety risk-based approach to 8 drugs most associated with medical uses. This approach was included in regulations presented to Parliament and regulations then came into force in March 2015.
‘Medicinal’ drugs threshold limit in blood
|
‘Medicinal’ drugs (risk-based approach) |
Threshold limit in blood |
|---|---|
|
clonazepam |
50µg/L |
|
diazepam |
550µg/L |
|
flunitrazepam |
300µg/L |
|
lorazepam |
100µg/L |
|
methadone |
500µg/L |
|
morphine |
80µg/L |
|
oxazepam |
300µg/L |
|
temazepam |
1,000µg/L |
|
Separate approach (to balance its risk) |
Threshold limit in blood |
|---|---|
|
amphetamine |
250µg/L |
The government is unable to provide any guidance on what amounts of dosage would equate to being over the specified limits. There are too many variables, such as physical characteristics, where each person will metabolise the drug at different rates. Eating or drinking will also influence the blood concentration.
Information for healthcare professionals
The Government has published guidance for healthcare professionals. Its purpose is to make sure people taking prescription and over-the-counter drugs understand the new offence and their responsibility not to drive whilst impaired.
How will the new laws affect you if you’re taking prescription medicines?
You should continue taking medicine(s) as advised by your doctor or healthcare professional or according to the patient information leaflet that comes with the medicine.
The new law gives the police powers to test and arrest drivers suspected of driving after taking certain controlled drugs more than specified levels. It also provides a medical defence if you’re taking medicine in accordance with instructions from a healthcare professional or an accompanying leaflet provided you’re not impaired.
If you drive and take prescription medicine it may be helpful to keep evidence of this with you in case you’re stopped by the police.
