Drug-impaired driving rising on SA roads

Concern about drug-impaired driving, which can pose a serious threat to road safety

June 16, 2026

Kaylene Louw 2 minutes read

Fatigue is also listed as a factor in fatal crashes

While drinking and driving remains a prominent issue on South African roads, drug-impaired driving is emerging as a growing concern globally.

From illicit substances to everyday cold and flu medications, these often-overlooked risks can pose a serious threat to road safety.

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MasterDrive CEO Eugene Herbert explained that as South Africa enters the winter months, many people will be managing colds and flu while continuing to drive.

“Many will be doing so after taking medications that carry clear drowsiness warnings,” said Herbert.

“According to the Loughborough Sleep Research Centre and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, fatigued drivers account for more than 20% of all road accidents. Up to one in five fatal crashes involves a tired driver.”

Elaborating on the risks, Herbert said, “Coupled with the fatigue that accompanies illness, it can be a recipe for disaster.

“Various studies suggest that driving while fatigued is just as dangerous as drunk driving, yet most drivers do not treat it with the same level of seriousness.”

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Herbert also stresses that companies employing drivers need to ensure they have clear policies and alternative arrangements in place to ensure everyone’s safety.

Even while drug-impaired driving, whether caused by illicit substances or medication, represents a significant threat to road safety, it is treated with less seriousness.

Global statistics highlight the seriousness of the issue

• Nationally, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has flagged drug intake as a factor in collisions. Owing to a lack of roadside resources, the RTMC cannot accurately measure the extent of the problem on the roads

• According to research from the Automobile Association in New Zealand, 79 fatal crashes were the result of drug-impaired driving in comparison to the 70 involving alcohol

• In the United States, studies revealed that drugs were present in around 44% of fatally injured drivers who were tested

While winter illnesses increase, motorists are reminded to carefully read medication warnings and consider whether they are fit to drive before getting behind the wheel.

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