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Citation |
Davey JD, Freeman J. Traffic Injury Prev. 2009; 10(3): 231-236. |
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Affiliation |
Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety-Queensland, School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Beams Road, Carseldine, Queensland 4503, Australia. j.davey@qut.edu.au |
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Copyright |
(Copyright © 2009, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group) |
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DOI |
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PMID |
19452364 |
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Abstract |
OBJECTIVE: Random roadside oral fluid testing is becoming increasingly popular as an apprehension and deterrence-based countermeasure to reduce drug driving. This article outlines research conducted to provide an estimate of the extent of drug driving in a sample of drivers in Brisbane, Queensland. METHODS: Oral fluid samples were collected from 1587 drivers who volunteered to participate at random breath testing (RBT) sites. Illicit substances tested for included cannabis (delta 9 tetrahydrocannibinol [THC]), meth/amphetamines, and cocaine. Drivers also completed a self-report questionnaire regarding their drug-related driving behaviors. RESULTS: Oral fluid samples from 58 participants (3.7%) were confirmed positive for at least one illicit substance. The most common drugs detected in oral fluid were ecstasy (n = 35) followed by cannabis (n = 20). Similarly, cannabis was confirmed as the most common self-reported drug combined with driving. Nevertheless, individuals who tested positive to any drug through oral fluid analysis were also more likely to report the highest frequency of drug driving. CONCLUSIONS: This research provides evidence that drug driving is relatively prevalent on some Queensland roads, and thus the behavior presents as a serious road safety threat. This article will further outline the study findings and present possible directions for future drug driving research. Language: en |