Dublin :Mandatory drug testing for drivers following collisions. This coming weekend, drivers involved in significant accidents are expected to be subject to mandatory drug testing. Currently, the only required testing for those involved in these types of accidents is alcohol testing.
Jack Chambers, the state minister for transportation, is proposing the new policies, which will go into force on Friday.In the past, gardaí were able to test for narcotics on their own discretion.
Mandatory testing for drivers involved in traffic accidents, however, is meant to deter risky driving behaviors and guarantee that all individuals who drive under the influence and are involved in a serious collision are identified. Research indicates that the prevalence of drug driving is rising.
Irish network RTÉ News has reported that 10,000 more drug-wipe test kits were bought earlier this year as part of the new testing program in order to comply with the new regulations. There will be a maximum waiting period of 30 minutes for roadside drug testing under this order. The devices screen for a variety of chemicals and can take roughly eight minutes to complete.
Transport Minister Jack Chambers of Ireland is proposing the changes. One of the four primary causes of traffic fatalities, according to Minister Chambers, is driving while intoxicated. “Ensuring that enforcement by An Garda Síochána is underpinned by robust road traffic legislation is a priority for me and my department,” added the minister.