Tests show crash drivers took drugs

More than half the drivers taken to hospital after causing a crash were found to have drugs in their system, a study has found.

The Ministry of Transport study used blood samples taken from 453 drivers who caused crashes.

Drugs were detected in the systems of 258 drivers, analysis by the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) found.

Of that group, 156 were found to be on drugs not administered by a medical professional

Ninety people sent to hospital had both cannabis and alcohol in their system.

Yesterday, the Automobile Association renewed its calls for random roadside saliva tests to be used to target drug drivers.

Such saliva screening devices can detect only three drugs - cannabis, methamphetamine and Ecstasy - and are used in every Australian state.

Police can only drug-test people if they believe they are under the influence. A blood test is carried out if the driver fails an impairment test.

"We think the majority of drivers driving with illicit drugs are pretty safe from detection, unfortunately," said the AA's Mike Noon.

"They may be caught. But the roadside saliva testing really sends a clear message that if you drug and drive, you could be randomly caught."

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Tests show crash drivers took drugs