Random Roadside Drug Testing Takes off in Queensland: Spence
Police Minister Judy Spence has commended police on their efforts during Queensland’s first Random Roadside Drug Testing operation, conducted in Brisbane overnight. Ms Spence said the results of the operation, highlight the importance of random drug testing in taking dangerous drivers off our roads.
(Media-Newswire.com) - Police Minister Judy Spence has commended police on their efforts during Queensland’s first Random Roadside Drug Testing operation, conducted in Brisbane overnight.
Ms Spence said the results of the operation, highlight the importance of random drug testing in taking dangerous drivers off our roads.
“Random roadside drug testing is about saving lives, and last night’s operations may have done just that,” Ms Spence said.
“Police tested 63 people for drugs on the first night of operations at Abbotsford Road, Bowen Hills.
“The tests checked for the four illegal drugs that are frequently identified in the bodies of drivers involved in fatal and serious vehicle crashes – cannabis, 'speed', ‘ice’ and 'ecstasy'.
“Five people received a 24-hour licence suspension after returning two positive roadside tests.
“Their tests have been sent for analysis at the Queensland Health Laboratory.”
Ms Spence said drug drivers are not welcome on Queensland roads – as they put the lives of other road users in danger.
“The use of drugs while driving significantly affects motorists' skills and reaction times, hindering the functions they require to drive safely,” Ms Spence said.
“We are determined to catch these people who play Russian Roulette with the lives of others on Queensland Roads.
“Anyone caught drug driving could be fined up to $1050 and lose their driver licence or face up to 3 months jail.
“I again issue this warning to motorists – if you take drugs and get behind the wheel you will face the consequences.”
Ms Spence said during 2006, the use of alcohol and other drugs was identified as a contributing factor in 106 fatalities within Queensland, which represents 31.6% of the Queensland road toll.
“During last night’s operation 328 people were also tested for drink driving, with 10 people returning readings over the legal blood alcohol limit,” Ms Spence said.
“We take a zero tolerance approach to this kind of reckless behaviour, which is not only dangerous, it is irresponsible and illegal.
“The message is simple – if they do the right thing, motorists will drive away within minutes. But if they break the law, they will be punished.
“We now have a great weapon to help stamp out this very dangerous behaviour throughout Queensland, and drivers who don't heed our warnings will face the full force of the law."
Inspector Chris Thomas, who was the commander of the first Random Roadside Drug Testing operation, said that drivers were cooperative and those who tested negative did not have to wait long for the test to be completed.
“The Roadside Drug Testing Unit and State Traffic Task Force will continue to conduct operations over the Christmas New Year period, rolling the testing sites throughout the State,” Inspector Thomas said.
Media Contact: Minister’s Office – Nicola Hazell 0439 673 287 Police Media - 3015 2444
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