Drivers warned over ‘senseless and selfish’ drug driving as 20 killed on West Yorkshire roads
⚠️ More than 800 arrests have been made in the last year
“Senseless and selfish” drug driving has killed 20 people in West Yorkshire over the last five years, new figures show.
A further 180 people were seriously injured in the period between 2021-2025.
Drivers in the county are being warned of the stark consequences of driving under the influence of drugs.
The region’s road safety partnership, West Yorkshire Vision Zero, has teamed up with THINK!, the Government’s road safety campaign, to urge people to think twice before putting drugs in the driving seat.
Alison Lowe OBE, Chair of the West Yorkshire Vision Zero Board and Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, said: “Were it not for drug drivers, 200 people would still be able to go about their lives. Instead, 20 people died and 180 have to live with serious consequences through injury.
“Each one of those people will have loved ones that are also deeply affected.
“Drug driving is a choice and a choice easily not made. So please think about the other people on the road, think about your loved ones and only drive when you’re safe to do so.”
More than 800 arrests were made for drug driving in West Yorkshire in the 12 months to July 2026.
The new campaign is warning drivers about the legal consequences of drug driving, which can affect employment, insurance costs, entry to other countries, loss of independence and shame.
Drug drivers risk a driving ban, a criminal record, an unlimited fine or prison.
Roads Minister Justin Madders added: “Everyone should feel safe on our roads. It is deeply upsetting to see that so many people in West Yorkshire have been killed or seriously injured as a result of motorists driving under the influence.
“Driving on drugs can ruin lives, it is senseless and selfish. This campaign sends a vital message that will keep our roads safer for everyone that uses them.
"We’re taking action - our first road safety strategy, the first in over a decade has consulted on tougher measures for people who take drugs and get behind the wheel."