EVERYONE is familiar with the term drink-driving but what about drug-driving? Maybe not. But did you know driving while under the influence of any type of illegal drug – including cannabis and cocaine – actually carries the same legal penalties as drink-

EVERYONE is familiar with the term drink-driving but what about drug-driving?

Maybe not.

But did you know driving while under the influence of any type of illegal drug - including cannabis and cocaine - actually carries the same legal penalties as drink-driving?

Offenders who are stopped by police can get a �5,000 fine, a 12-month driving ban, or even six months in prison.

Hertfordshire County Council's road safety unit has welcomed a new drug-driving campaign launched by the Department for Transport.

Through TV adverts and posters the message to drug-drivers is that their 'eyes will give them away' and to think twice before getting behind a wheel under the influence.

Councillor Stuart Pile, executive member for highways and transport, said: "We are very pleased there is now a mass-media drug driving advert, which is particularly aimed at younger drivers.

"In the last three years in Hertfordshire, over 50 per cent of the drug-drive in-car casualties were aged 17 to 24.

"While the majority of drivers in this age group are sensible, it seems some people need to be re-educated and shown that drug-driving is just as unacceptable as drink-driving."

Cllr Pile added: "We want to help people understand the legalities and dangers of drug driving as well the fact that they can and will get caught."

Inspector Terry Robb said: "Our officers are specifically trained to identify those risking their lives and the lives of others by driving under the influence.

"We will continue to help keep the county's roads safe.