Man arrested on suspicion of drug driving after car stopped with flat tyre
A 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drug driving after roads policing officers stopped a vehicle with a completely flat tyre on Monday 13 October.
The incident occurred on Gloucester Avenue, Tilbury, where one of our eagle-eyed officers noticed the car being driven in an unsafe condition. Colleagues followed the car, requesting the driver to stop. Upon further investigation at the scene, the driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs. He has since been released on bail while enquiries continue.
That same night, three other men were arrested in connection with drug-related traffic offences, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by police in tackling drug misuse on Essex’s roads. Arrests included a 21-year-old stopped at Orsett Cock, a 29-year-old at Chelmsford and a 26-year-old man in South Ockendon.
Drug driving is a serious offence because it significantly impairs a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Substances—whether illegal drugs or certain prescription medications—can affect reaction times, concentration, coordination, and decision-making. Driving under the influence puts not only the driver at risk but also passengers, pedestrians, and other road users.
Essex Police continue to take a proactive approach to tackling drug driving across the county. Roads policing officers regularly conduct stop checks, roadside drug tests, and targeted patrols and work closely with the Safer Essex Roads Partnership to raise awareness about the dangers of drug driving.
Driving under the influence of drugs is reckless and dangerous. We will continue to take robust action against those who put lives at risk on our roads. If you suspect someone is drug driving, please report it—your call could save a life.
In the UK, it is illegal to drive if you are unfit to do so because of drug use, or if you have certain drugs in your system above specified limits—even if you feel fine. Penalties can include a minimum 12-month driving ban, an unlimited fine, and up to six months in prison.
