Drug-taking motorists being targeted

Motorists driving under the influence of drugs have been targeted in a new crackdown by North Yorkshire Police, reports the Bradford Telegraph and Argus.

The police began Operation Anvil in March and to date 17 men and three women have been arrested for being under the influence of drugs while driving.

Drivers that are likely to drive after taking drugs have been reminded by Inspector Dave Brown of the North Yorkshire force of the dangers of doing so.

"Driving under the influence of drugs - whether illegal substances or prescribed medication - is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol, it is also illegal," he said.

Motorists caught driving while under the influence of drugs could face the minimum of a one year driving ban, a fine of up to £5,000 or points on their licence, all of which will mean a hike in car insurance premiums the following year.

Manchester police have also increased their efforts to cut down car crime after installing police surveillance cameras around the city to catch uninsured vehicles.