Lawyer calls for mandatory drug driving tests for students

A Southport motoring lawyer is calling for learner drink and drug-driving information courses to be incorporated into driving test requirements.

Frank Rogers, head of Just Motor Law, the motoring division of Kirwans law firm which has offices across the North West including on Hoghton Street in Southport is calling for an awareness-raising element to be introduced into learner courses to ensure that drivers are completely clear of the law around driving, drink and drugs.

Speaking at the National Road Safety Conference recently, he spoke of his concerns that despite the introduction of new drug-driving legislation in 2015, many drivers still appeared to be passing their test with little or no knowledge of the effect that alcohol and drugs – including prescription drugs – could have on their ability to drive.

He said: “Drivers who have been disqualified for at least 12 months for a drink-drive offence can be referred to a drink-drive rehabilitation (DDR) course, yet as it stands there is very little in place to educate new drivers about the dangers of driving while under the influence before they hit the roads.

“DDR courses have had a remarkable effect on changing the behaviour of those convicted of drink driving offences, and I firmly believe that by introducing learner driver versions of these courses, incorporating additional information on drug-driving, new drivers will be far better prepared mentally to keep both themselves and others safe on the roads.”