A learner driver in St Helens has been arrested after allegedly failing a drug test during his driving exam.
High-way to hell! learner driver busted for driving stoned
The 26-year-old man from Wigan, Greater Manchester, was pulled over after police noticed a faulty brake light. Officers said they detected the smell of cannabis and subsequently carried out a roadside drug wipe, which the driver failed.
Cannabis was also found in his possession. He was arrested on suspicion of drug driving and later released under investigation.
Roads Policing Inspector Simon Wilson told the RAC: “Although some people may find the humour in the fact someone on a driving test was arrested, drug driving is no laughing matter. It is incredibly dangerous and selfish to get behind the wheel of a vehicle under the influence of drugs and it’s an offence we take seriously at Merseyside Police."
He added: "Our stance on illegal substances is clear. Nobody should be taking them. But even if you choose to break the law and take illegal drugs, that does not give you the right to endanger the lives of innocent people on the roads who have no way of knowing you are driving intoxicated.”
Under UK law, it is illegal to drive if drugs, legal or illegal, impair your ability to operate a vehicle, or if illegal substances are detected in your system. Police can conduct impairment tests and use roadside kits to screen for cannabis and cocaine.
Drivers suspected of being unfit to drive can be arrested and required to give a blood or urine sample, which may result in criminal charges.
Convictions for drug driving carry severe penalties, including a minimum one-year driving ban, unlimited fines, up to six months in prison, and a criminal record.
Offences remain on a licence for 11 years, and the most serious cases, such as causing death while driving under the influence of drugs, can result in life imprisonment.