Setanta Insurance campaigns against drug driving

by Richard Kilner

Story link: Setanta Insurance campaigns against drug driving

Irish insurer Setanta Insurance has launched a campaign to heighten awareness of the dangers of driving whilst under the influence of drugs.

The campaign will create a series of four-minute films designed to highlight the horrific consequences of drug driving.

Recent studies suggest as many as 20% have taken drugs, with the unsurprising statistic that the 15-24 age band is the worst offender.

Last year almost 75% of the 1,800 drivers tested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs proved true.

In July Aviva published research indicating 25% of 17-24 year olds had been in a car with a driver they thought to be under the influence of drugs.

The research also showed that 10% of young drivers had at some point driven whilst under the influence of drugs.

Setanta Insurance Chairman and CEO Mike Matthews has expressed his hope that by increasing awareness drivers will be discouraged from taking their lives in their hands by taking drugs.

Social media is at the heart of the campaign, which includes the website keepdramaofftheroads.com where information on film-making and the dangers of drugs can be found.

Individuals will also be able to upload their films to a dedicated YouTube channel, wth a €3,000 prize for the winner, and €300 prizes for regional winners.