The core aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of driving under the influence of recreational drugs among 17- to 39-year-old drivers in Scotland. The study was based on a probability survey of the general household population. The data was collected through computer-assisted self-interviewing of 1008 young drivers. Of the respondents, 86% had a clean driving licence and 13% had endorsements. 64% used a car to reach their place of work and 26% drove during the course of their work. Nearly 20% of respondents had broken the speed limit by 20mph or more, usually in a 60mph speed limit. 20% of respondents had driven while probably over the legal limit for alcohol. 14% had used recreational drugs in the past 12 months. 9% admitted to having driven while under the influence of recreational drugs, 5% of these within the last 12 months. Cannabis was the most common drug used by drivers, but four drivers reported driving under the influence of ecstasy and three drivers reported driving under a combination of drugs. Half the drivers considered that drug use had not affected their ability to drive. Most journeys had been to or from a friend or relative's house, taking place at the week-end, and involving distances of less than five miles. Respondents without a clean driving licence were most likely to have engaged in risk-taking behaviour. Younger age respondents were more likely to have taken drugs and to have driven while under the influence of drugs.
Abstract