DUBLIN: New road traffic laws set to take effect, will mandate drug testing for drivers involved in serious accidents.
In conjunction with the upcoming An Garda Bank Holiday road safety scheme, drug and alcohol tests will be conducted at Garda checkpoints across the country from 7 a.m. today until Tuesday morning. Currently, drivers involved in motor vehicle accidents are only subjected to mandatory alcohol testing, with drug testing at the discretion of the gardaí.
Under the new law, gardaí will have the authority to detain individuals for up to 30 minutes for drug testing purposes, aiming to streamline the process. Last year, out of 8,000 people arrested for drink driving, 3,000 were found to have used drugs.
To facilitate this, the Gardaí procured 10,000 drug testing kits earlier this year, providing results within eight minutes. These tests can detect the presence of various substances, including cocaine, cannabis, opiates, benzodiazepines, and methamphetamines.
Previously, a blood test was required to confirm alcohol intoxication, a process criticised by the policing authority for causing delays. They recommended the involvement of nurses to expedite blood testing procedures.
Minister of State for Transport Jack Chambers highlighted the significance of the Road Traffic Act reform, citing a rise in drug-related driving incidents. He emphasised that mandatory drug testing following accidents will convey a clear message about the seriousness of driving under the influence.
Roads Assistant Commissioner for Policing and Community Engagement, Paula Hillman, acknowledged the prevalence of drug driving and stressed the importance of addressing it.
In preparation for the bank holiday weekend, the Road Safety Authority announced heightened scrutiny on motorcyclists. With 79 fatalities recorded in road accidents so far in 2024, including 10 motorcyclists, the RSA emphasised the need for increased vigilance. June typically sees a spike in accidents and fatalities among bikers, highlighting the urgency of road safety measures.
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