The government has backed a new awareness campaign to make drivers aware of the new rules on drug driving, which will come into force on March 2nd.

The changes relate to eight illegal drugs, which will have an extremely low acceptable level to improve success rates. There are also eight prescription drugs covered: these are cloanzepam, diazepam, flunitrazepam, lorazepam, oxazepam, temazepam, methadone and morphine.

The limits for these drugs have been set above standard prescribed dosages, so those taking their medicines in accordance with doctor’s instructions are unlikely to fall foul of the new rules.

Transport minister Robert Goodwill elaborated on this point, saying: “If you are taking your medicine as directed and your driving is not impaired, then you are not breaking the law and there is no need to worry. We advise anyone who is unsure about the effects of their medication or how the new legislation may affect them, to seek the advice of their doctor or pharmacist.”