AMA applauds new driver drug tests

July 3, 2007

The WA Government's planned assault on drug affected drivers has been applauded by the AMA (WA).

"Targeting motorists driving under the influence of cannabis, ecstasy and methamphetamines with the same zeal as those affected by alcohol, is long overdue," said association President Prof Geoff Dobb.

"For too long, illicit drugs have been the cause of much of the carnage on our roads and contributing to the increasing burden on our hospital emergency departments.

"Almost every day, doctors witness the unnecessary loss of life and the horrendous injuries caused by motorists affected by illicit drugs, yet the law has been powerless to act.

"However, new roadside drug test kits combined with new powers for police to detect, apprehend and process drug-affected drivers, will go a long way to helping cull these motorists from our highways."

Prof Dobb said the AMA had worked closely with the police, the WA Health Department and emergency physicians in framing procedures for testing motorists suspected of being under the influence of drugs who were taken to hospital before road-side tests could be carried out.

"This is a particularly difficult issue to deal with, but the spirit of co-operation between all parties has ensured we now have a good process in place to have the tests done in hospital, when necessary."

Prof Dobb said the new laws, combined with the drug test kits and a $2.3 million purpose built Breath and Drug (BAD) Bus, would be a strong deterrent for the thousands of WA motorists who thought they could use illicit drugs and get away with it.

"Parents or relatives who are aware of young people driving under the influence of drugs should make sure they now understand the consequences," he said.

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