New computer test to trap drivers on drugs
Wednesday November 23 2005
in London
A COMPUTER test for those driving while under the influence of drugs was unveiled by the British Home Office yesterday.
The first machines are likely to be in the hands of patrol officers within two years when the government will ask police forces to test the technology. This comes as research has revealed that there was an increasing number of drivers getting behind the wheel having taken drugs.
In Derbyshire 31 out of 92 motorists stopped in a pilot study tested positive for an array of narcotics including cannabis and heroin. Unlike alcohol, drugs cannot be detected by a Breathalyser.
Anyone who either fails or refuses to take the test will be taken to the police station for a blood test.
The machine used yesterday was a Sony Vaio handheld computer, available in high street stores.
It was loaded with a number of "games" designed to assess the reactions of a motorist.
Drivers would be tested not only on their speed and dexterity but also the accuracy with which they performed the task.
This is because while cannabis can slow reaction time, amphetamines quicken it - but also makes individuals more prone to error, a symptom which can be fatal when driving. (©Daily Telegraph, London)
