Study finds 10pc of traffic accident drivers drug-affected
One in 10 drivers involved in traffic accidents had taken illicit drugs, and the prevalence of drug-driving among the young was even higher, a survey has found.
The findings were made by doctors who examined the urine samples of 395 injured drivers admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital between January and December 2007. They were published in the latest issue of the Hong Kong Medical Journal.
The researchers said the government should implement on-site blood or urine tests on motorists suspected of driving under the influence of drugs.
Among the 395 drivers tested, 38 were positive for at least one illicit drug, with 17 of them having taken ketamine.
Seven drivers tested positive for three or more drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, methadone and morphine. In all, 360 of the drivers were men, and 150 drove private cars.
Of the 63 drivers aged under 25, 21 per cent had taken drugs, compared with just 8 per cent of drivers over 25.
While most crashes occurred between 4pm and midnight, drivers were more likely to have taken drugs and then crashed in the early hours. Illicit drugs were found in 18 per cent of drivers involved in accidents between midnight and 7am, compared with just 8 per cent during the daytime.
Researchers said the prevalence of drug-driving in Hong Kong was similar to international levels. Studies revealed the ratio was 12.3 per cent in Belgium, 13 per cent in Sweden and 9.7 per cent in Thailand.
They noted that exposure to illicit drugs could impair concentration and therefore the ability to control a vehicle properly.
Researchers said on-site screening for suspected drugged drivers, such as obtaining blood or urine samples, should be compulsory in Hong Kong.
Their findings come shortly after the government announced a plan to combat drug-driving in reaction to a series of traffic accidents involving drugged drivers.
Under the proposal, motorists would have to undergo a series of physical tests, including walking heel-to-toe along a straight line, counting their steps and standing on one leg.
Officers would also examine how a suspect's eye pupils reacted to light. The test would last for about 30 minutes.
Drivers would be required to provide blood or urine samples for laboratory tests only if they failed the preliminary tests.
