New device allows police to test drivers' saliva for cannabis
A kit for detecting cannabis is drivers has been approved for use in police stations across the UK, the Home Office has said.
A positive saliva test with the new device means officers will no longer have to call a doctor before asking for a blood sample if they suspect a driver of being on drugs.
The Draeger DrugTest 5000, a kit for detecting cannabis was that approved for use in police stations across the UK Credit: Gardiner Richardson/PA Wire
The kit is able to detect THC - the active ingredient in cannabis - and future kits may be capable of identifying other substances too.
A total of 644 accidents, and 49 deaths, were caused by drug-drivers using both illegal and medicinal substances according to 2011 figures from the Department for Transport.
The RAC is warning the Government is focusing too much on penalties for drug drivers and not enough on education to prevent it happening. Their survey found:
13% of 17-24 year olds admit driving after taking drugs or being a passenger when the driver had taken drugs.
A 50% rise in 25-44 year olds using their smartphones while driving.
44% of drivers felt less safe on the roads.
55% want a lifetime driving ban for anyone caught drink or drug driving.
"The growth of the new breed of motoring offences, like drug-driving and social networking behind the wheel, is highly concerning. The RAC urges Government to reintroduce high-profile campaigns on these issues as soon as possible.
These offences don't yet have the same social taboo that drink-driving now holds,which thanks to years of concerted campaigns has continued to decrease as a problem."
The number of young people who admit driving after taking drugs has gone up from 5% to 9% in the last year. The RAC survey also found more than 4 in 10 drivers felt less safe on the roads than ever before.
Police check drivers after increase in drug driving offences Credit: ITN
The motoring group wants the Government to bring back high profile road safety campaigns, such as those which helped to change attitudes towards drink driving.
