HAMPSHIRE Constabulary is reminding drivers that “it’s not worth the risk” when it comes to driving under the influence of drugs.

The warning comes as the constabulary throws its support behind THINK!’s drug-drive campaign which launched last Wednesday.

The campaign marks the one-year anniversary of the drug-drive legislation change which made it illegal to drive with certain drugs in the body above specified levels.

As a result of the law change, roadside drug tests have become part of an officer’s armoury to help make our roads safer.

Last year, Hampshire officers made 122 arrests for drug-related driving offences and with roadside tests being used more and more, those under the influence of certain substances are more likely to get caught on the spot.

According to THINK!, research shows that males aged between 17 and 34 are most likely to take the risk but officers in Hampshire are equipped to ensure it’s not a risk worth taking.

Road safety sergeant Rob Heard said: “It is illegal to drive if you’re driving is impaired by legal or illegal drugs.

“You don’t just have to be on illegal drugs to be unfit to drive. Many prescription or over-the-counter medicines can also impair your ability to drive. If you’re taking medicines, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or healthcare professional before driving.

“The new testing equipment which came out last year has given the police an additional tool in the armoury of officers to detect offenders who put not only their own but other people’s lives at risks on our roads by driving while under the influence of drugs.

“All those suspected of driving while impaired, or over the prescribed drug limit, will still need to have a blood sample taken for analysis. However, the new equipment has assisted officers to detect the presence of drugs closer to the time of driving and thus allow blood samples to be taken quicker without always needing the opinion of a medical practitioner to assess the condition of the driver first.

“Don’t drive impaired, you risk your life and the lives of other innocent motorists and road users. It’s not worth the risk.”

The penalties for drug driving are the same as for drink driving. If you are convicted you could face a minimum 12-month driving ban, a criminal record, an unlimited fine, up to six months in prison, and an endorsement on your driving licence for 11 years.

Driving under the influence of drugs is extremely dangerous and can affect driving skills in a number of ways, according to the police spokesman.

Cannabis users often think they are safer when they are under the influence because they drive more slowly. However, cannabis slows reaction and decision times. It can also distort perception of time and distance, and result in poorer concentration and control of the vehicle.

Cocaine leads to a sense of over-confidence and this is reflected in users’ driving styles. Users typically perform higher risk, more aggressive manoeuvres at greater speeds.

According to the police, ecstasy is also extremely dangerous to drive on because it results in distorted vision, heightened perception of sounds, altered perception and judgment of risks, and an over-confident driving attitude.

During the phase while the effects of any illegal drugs are wearing off the user may feel fatigued, affecting concentration levels.

Driving in any of these conditions is a bad idea, not just for the driver but for their passengers and other road users.