Armidale has been dubbed the number one worst offender for drug-driving in NSW

Throughout the state, rates of drink and drug-driving have declined, but more than 25,000 were still caught under the influence in a year.

NSW Traffic and Highway Patrol Command assistant commissioner Michael Corboy said the statistics indicate some drivers are getting the message, but the number of those that drive under the influence are still too high.

“A decline in drink and drug-driving, shows that the message is starting to get across, and that the community will not tolerate those who put themselves and others at risk,” he said.

“However, it is still alarming to see that there were more than 17,000 drink-drivers, and more than 8,000 drug-drivers on our roads in the last financial year.

“Every one of those drivers or riders have shown a complete lack of regard for not only their own life, but the lives of all others using the road.

“Evidence is clear that drunk and drug-drivers are costing lives on NSW roads.”

Stimulants such as ecstasy, amphetamines such as speed, crystal meth and base have a significant impact on drivers.

The drugs increase a persons confidence in their driving, make them drive more aggressively, impair concentration and vision and can lead to visual hallucinations.

Port Macquarie came in a close second to Armidale for drug-driving, followed by Goulburn, Liverpool and Nowra.