Rise in drug-drive arrests on Highland roads
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POLICE are reporting a sharp rise in drug-driving offences on Highland roads during the annual festive crackdown on intoxicated motorists.
Drink-driving arrests are also up slightly on this time last year, according to Police Scotland, although figures won’t be released until the New Year.
Inspector Donnie Mackinnon of the force’s Dingwall-based road policing unit said there had been a “substantial” rise in drug-driving detections.
With new Scottish Government drug-driving laws coming into force on October 21 this year, officers can now carry out roadside spot-checks using special testing kits to detect illegal substances in the culprit’s bloodstream.
These tests are accompanied by traditional breathalyser checks for alcohol misuse.
Inspector Mackinnon, while dismayed by the increases, highlighted the early success of the Christmas campaign.
“We have been carrying out increased checks all across the divisional area, night and day, from Dalwhinnie in the south right up to Caithness,” he said. “Our figures, disappointingly, are up compared to the same period last year.
“Notably, there has been a significant increase in drug-driving detections on the back of the new roadside testing kits, introduced on October 21. We’re now better equipped to deal with that type of offence.
“We’ve always had the power to deal with it, but these roadside testing kits detect drugs present in someone’s body in a way not possible before.
“I would say it is a fantastic tool for us to pick up on those abusing drugs and, thereafter, driving irresponsibly. It is disappointing that a proportion of motorists are still presenting a significant risk to themselves and us all.”
The new legislation brings a zero-tolerance approach to eight drugs most commonly associated with illegal use, including cannabis, heroin and cocaine. Drugs associated with medicinal use have distinct limits set.
Mouth swab testing of saliva gives officers a positive or negative reading at the roadside, with subsequent blood tests at a police station indicating the type and quantity of drug consumed.
The new law brings the same penalties as drink-driving, with a minimum 12-month driving ban, up to six months in prison and a fine of up to £5,000.
“Those consuming something the night who weren’t staggering or slurring their words, with pupil size seemingly normal, might have slipped under the radar previously. These kits change that,” Inspector Mackinnon added.
