Motorists in Queensland, Australia will now face additional testing to detect cocaine in their system. This comes as drug vans equipped with roadside drug detection technology are now able to identify the presence of cocaine, along with other illicit substances. The decision to include cocaine in the testing protocol is a response to the state’s high road toll, as Queensland recorded the highest number of road fatalities in the country last year, with 299 lives lost.
Disturbingly, the data provided by the government highlights the role of drug drivers and riders in fatal crashes. In 2019, 61 people lost their lives in accidents involving drivers under the influence of drugs. This alarming trend prompted officials to examine the correlation between serious crashes and cocaine use. The data collected from hospitals revealed a significant increase in the percentage of individuals with cocaine in their system after a serious crash. The figure rose from 3.6 percent between 2018 and 2019 to 7.1 percent between 2020 and 2021.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Chris Stream emphasized the deteriorated state of individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol. He noted that impaired judgment, memory, coordination, and reaction time are common symptoms displayed by such drivers. Stream warned that choosing to drive while affected by drugs not only jeopardizes the driver’s life but also endangers the lives of others on the road.
The decision to include cocaine in the list of substances for testing lagged five years behind New South Wales, which introduced similar measures as part of its roadside testing regime. With drug driver detections increasing by 30 percent compared to the previous five-year average, authorities decided it was imperative to take action.
Stream stated that individuals must take responsibility for their decisions when deciding to drive. He assured that law enforcement officers will be vigilant in targeting drivers who make poor choices. This means that drivers can expect to encounter random drug tests anytime, anywhere in the state.
Mark Bailey, Queensland’s Roads Minister, expressed concern regarding the high number of positive drug test results among drivers. Shockingly, one in four drivers tested in the state currently returns a positive result for drugs. Bailey labeled this situation unacceptable and stressed the danger these individuals pose to themselves and other Queenslanders. He emphasized that severe consequences await those caught driving with drugs in their system, including license disqualification, fines of up to $2,167 (US$1,447), and the possibility of imprisonment for repeat offenders.
In conclusion, the inclusion of cocaine in the list of testable substances reflects Queensland’s commitment to improving road safety. By expanding the capabilities of roadside drug detection technology, authorities aim to deter drug-impaired driving and protect the lives of motorists. Individuals are urged to make responsible choices and be aware that law enforcement officers will be relentless in targeting drug drivers. With firm consequences in place, the Queensland government seeks to address the serious issue of drug-impaired driving and ensure the safety of all road users.
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