A new law comes into force on Monday, March 2 which could result in a prison sentence, driving ban and criminal record for those who abuse prescription medication or take illegal substances before driving.

Under the new law, motorists could be prosecuted for driving with certain drugs in their system above specified limits.

Around half of the drugs listed are available on prescription, prompting concern amongst many patients who are routinely prescribed therapeutic medication such as morphine and tamazapam, which are covered by the new offence.

Motoring law specialists, Forster Dean Solicitors, acting in partnership with the Department for Transport, have launched a campaign to raise awareness of the new law and reassure legitimate users of the medicines covered by the legislation.

Alison Ashworth, head of motoring law at Forster Dean said: "It's important to remember that the new law is aimed at punishing those who abuse prescription medication or take illegal substances before driving. Legitimate users of medicines should not be concerned.

"Provided a person has been personally prescribed the medication which they have taken, and have taken it in accordance with prescribing instructions and guidance, a defence will be available to them should they need to rely on it."

The specified limits for prescription medication have been set relatively high and Forster Dean are keen to reassure legitimate users of the medication that the new law has not been put in place to target them.

However, Ms Ashworth added: "Those who take illegal drugs should think twice before driving. Under the new law the prosecution no longer need to prove that the person's driving was affected by a substance to secure a conviction. A positive blood sample above the new low limits will be enough for a person to be prosecuted."