More than 100 drivers reported to DVLA over concerns they pose a risk to other road users

Did you know, where we find evidence that a driver poses a risk to other road users, we can apply to the DVLA for them to have their driving licence revoked?

John (not his real name) is a 22-year-old man who was stopped by our officers after they reported him carrying out a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre in Hatton. He was arrested after officers reported smelling cannabis in the car.

While carrying out enquiries, officers found evidence he was a cannabis user and addicted to painkillers and as a result he posed a danger to other road users. 

John is one of 109 people involved in incidents in Warwickshire last year where we found evidence they posed a danger to other road users.

Where we find such evidence, we present it to the DVLA who can then revoke their driving licence. This is part of Operation Revoke.

Sergeant Dave Ruddy form our roads policing team said: “This is about making our roads safer. If we find strong evidence that someone poses a risk to other road users through their own actions or a medical condition, then we can seek to have their licence revoked. It’s especially useful when we identify someone who regularly misuses drugs – including cannabis – or is alcohol dependent.

“Many of the people using our roads to commit serious crime – such as drug dealing – have substance abuse issues that mean we can apply to have their driving licence revoked. So, as well as making our roads safer it’s making them much more difficult for criminals to use.”

Other examples

In October 2023, a man was detained after the car he was driving was involved in a collision in Coleshill. Officers presented evidence to the DVLA that he regularly used cocaine and was having a medical episode at the time of the collision. He had his driving licence revoked. 

In March, a woman was brought into custody suspected of drug possession offences. Officers found evidence she was dependent on crack cocaine and heroin. They submitted evidence to the DVLA who revoked her licence.

If you have concerns that a driver poses a risk to other road users, you can contact us via our website or by calling 101. If you believe someone is at immediate risk then call 999.