Key Takeaways:
- New Zealand will introduce roadside drug testing for drivers starting in the Wellington police district on Monday
- Drivers can be tested for four substances: THC, methamphetamine, MDMA, and cocaine
- Refusing a roadside drug test can result in a $400 fine, 75 license demerit points, and a 12-hour driving ban
- Drivers with prescriptions or medical notes may still be required to take the test and can only dispute a positive result after laboratory testing
- The testing process involves a saliva test, which takes about 10 minutes, and may be followed by further testing if the initial result is positive
Introduction to Roadside Drug Testing
The New Zealand police are introducing roadside drug testing for drivers, starting in the Wellington police district. This new initiative aims to deter people from driving under the influence of drugs and to catch those who do. The testing will involve a saliva test, which will screen for four substances: THC (present in cannabis), methamphetamine, MDMA (ecstasy and molly), and cocaine. Drivers who refuse to take the test can face significant fines and penalties, including a $400 fine, 75 license demerit points, and a 12-hour driving ban.
The Testing Process
The testing process involves a simple saliva test, which takes about 10 minutes to complete. Drivers will be required to swipe their tongue on an oral-fluid screening device, which will detect the presence of the four substances. If the initial test is negative, the driver is free to go. However, if the test is positive, further testing will be carried out. A second test, identical to the first, will be conducted, and if this is also positive, the driver will be forbidden from driving for 12 hours. A third test, which involves providing a saliva sample, will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. If the laboratory test is positive, an infringement notice will be issued.
Concerns and Criticisms
There have been concerns raised about the new drug-testing system, including that it may not be consistent with the Bill of Rights Act and that it could return positive results in the presence of prescription medicines. Some have also expressed concerns that the testing could generate positive results long after the drugs would impair driving ability. Additionally, there are worries that the time needed to carry out the tests and wait for a result could create difficulties for drivers. Research from overseas has shown that concerns about roadside drug testing could lead people to stop taking prescribed medicines.
Medical Defenses and Prescriptions
Drivers who have prescriptions or medical notes may still be required to take the test and can only dispute a positive result after laboratory testing. Superintendent Steve Greally advises drivers using prescription medicines to continue taking them as directed by their health practitioner and to consider any impairing effects the medicine could cause. However, drivers should talk to their practitioner for medical advice, and ultimate responsibility lies with the driver. If a driver is experiencing any impairing effects, they should not drive.
The Importance of Road Safety
The introduction of roadside drug testing is a positive step in reducing harm caused by drivers who get behind the wheel impaired by drugs. According to Minister of Transport Chris Bishop, about 30% of all road fatalities involve an impairing drug. The police have worked vigorously alongside agencies to identify and clarify any ongoing matters this significant change will bring for road users. The focus remains on keeping everyone safe on the roads, and if you intend to get behind the wheel after consuming impairing drugs, you will be caught.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the introduction of roadside drug testing in New Zealand is a significant step towards reducing the harm caused by drug-impaired driving. While there are concerns and criticisms about the testing system, the police are confident that it will deter people from driving under the influence of drugs and enable officers to catch those who do. Drivers should be aware of the testing process and the potential consequences of refusing a test or receiving a positive result. By working together, we can keep our roads safe and reduce the number of fatalities caused by drug-impaired driving.