More than 17,000 people were caught last year, but roadside testing in one state is set to get even tougher.
A new drug testing regime comes into force on Sunday which could catch more drivers and see police stay out on the roads for longer.
NSW police will now place drivers under arrest for a roadside oral test, if their initial drug swipe test comes back positive, rather than taking them back to a station.
This oral test is then sent for an analysis while a second positive swab test on the spot will result in the driver being banned from driving for 24 hours.
Drivers could also be later prosecuted after the lab results are returned.
NSW Police conducted 217,000 oral tests across the state in the past financial year.
Police have mobile drug test kits, including the Drug wipe that quickly tests for the presence of cannabis, meth and cocaine.
The new testing would mean police officers would spend less time in the station processing, Acting Assistant Commissioner David Driver said.
“The time saving that this new process will offer means police will have more time out on the road and someone testing positive won’t take them away from their duties on the road,” he told The Daily Telegraph.
“We know that, while the principal cause of fatalities on our road network is speed, fatigue, drugs and alcohol, this is an enhancement of one of the tools we have to reduce road trauma and save more lives.
“Anyone who thinks they can get away with using drugs, should be warned their chance of getting caught just got higher.”
NSW Police, Transport for NSW and NSW Health all worked together to deliver the more streamlined process, with the oral kits supplied across the state.
Police Minister Yasmin Catley said anyone who takes illicit drugs and drives under the influence will now be detected faster and more easily than ever before.
“The roadside test is a huge win for our cops, with tests and results available on the spot. This will save masses of police time,” she added.
“Driving under the influence of illicit drugs costs lives. Police are enforcing the law because we want everyone to arrive home safely.”
There were 17,507 positive tests recorded in 2023, with drugged drivers accounting for more deaths on the roads compared to drink drivers.
Source: News.com.au
