Bizarre drugs tests to be performed at roadside
Page 10
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
II Truckers suspected of taking drugs are to be forced to take a series of bizarre roadside tests.
The emergency tests are being brought in for all road users because ministers are alarmed by the sharp rise in drug-related car deaths.
Drivers suspected of having taken drugs will be ordered to walk in a straight line while looking at their feet and counting out a set number of steps. Other tests include standing on one leg with head tilted back, eyes shut and the other leg raised high above the ground: or staring straight ahead so that the policeman can compare pupils with those on an indicator board.
Drivers who fail one or more tests will be taken to a police station for a blood or urine sample. If found guilty of driving under the influence of drugs they face fines of up to 15,000, as well as a mandatory driving ban and/or a prison sentence of up to six months.