The Christmas 2014 drink/drugs campaign is underway, and last week the Home Office finally authorised the use of roadside saliva tests, which have been used successfully in other parts of Europe.

These saliva tests can instantly detect drugs and ‘legal highs’, and will include prescription drugs, e.g. sleeping pills and anti-anxiety drugs etc. This is likely to affect many people.

Being caught driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs can result in the following:
1. A minimum driving ban of 12 months;
2. A financial penalty of up to £5,000;
3. A criminal record.

This is turn will affect insurance (an endorsement on your licence remains for 11 years), employment, and will certainly provide you with problems when trying to obtain a visa to visit certain parts of the world.

A specific new drug driving offence will soon be law, but this new procedure takes effect now.

With all new procedures, legal problems and issues will occur, which is why it is vital that you seek advice from experienced, specialist solicitors as soon as possible. These driving offence procedures happen quickly, so you in turn will need the best advice quickly. We operate a 24-hour emergency service; please call us on 0207 387 2032 or complete our online enquiry form here.