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Citation |
Rudram D. J. Can. Soc. Forensic Sci. 1999; 32(1): 47-53. |
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Copyright |
(Copyright © 1999, Canadian Society of Forensic Science, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group) |
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DOI |
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PMID |
unavailable |
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Abstract |
In the UK, it is an offence to drive when unfit through drink or drugs. There is no distinction made between legal or illegal drugs and this is a serious offence which attracts a substantial fine and a minimum of a year's suspension from driving. The Forensic Science Service (FSS) analysed 1863 samples of blood in such cases last year. In contrast, we saw over 20,000 samples of blood for alcohol analysis, from a total of over 800,000 breath tests administered by the police. Cannabis is the drug most frequently detected followed closely by the benzodiazepine group. Several drugs are detected in over 50% of motorists samples. There is a public and political perception that drug driving is a significant problem in the UK. This perception is supported by the first year's results from a government survey of road incident fatalities. A significant increase in the number of drivers found to have drugs in their urine was found. Drug driving submissions to the FSS increased by 40% last year. Submissions, however, vary widely between police forces for no obvious reason, although increased officer awareness seems to be at least part of the explanation. Legislation in the UK to deal with driving under the influence of drugs is adequate, but police officers need help with detection and enforcement. This is being tackled in a number of ways. • Investigation of roadside screening devices • Improved officer training • More effective and efficient analysis of blood samples |