More road tests to target drug drivers

Mixed results have come from Narrogin’s roads over the Easter long weekend period, with Narrogin police commending the majority of drivers but being left disappointed by a minority.

Seven drivers registered positive results for driving under the influence of illicit drugs, including methamphetamine and cannabis, when stopped for roadside testing.

One driver was charged with driving in excess of 0.05 per cent blood alcohol level during a random breath test, while only two drivers were issued speeding infringements.

“The majority of road users should be commended as no crashes or serious incidents were reported during this period throughout the Narrogin area,” Sen. Sgt John Bouwman said. “However, there are still a minority who believe they can still do whatever they like and fail to see the potential consequences of their offending to other road users.”

The capability of WA Police to conduct roadside drug testing will be increased next financial year, with the State Government putting drug-affected drivers in its sights.

A total of $7.4 million has been provided to the Western Australia Police Force to allow officers to conduct a record 42,500 drug tests along with more than 1.9 million alcohol breath tests in the 2019-20 financial year. This represents a five-fold increase on the number of roadside drug tests carried out in 2013-14, when just 7997 tests were carried out.

New penalties for drug-affected drivers are being drafted and are expected to be introduced into State Parliament later this year, according to Police and Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts.

“Driving under the influence of drugs is reckless and irresponsible,” she said.

“I don’t want mine or anyone else’s family to have to share the roads with these dangerous drivers.

“That’s why we are putting fresh resources into tackling the problem and why we will introduce tougher penalties into the Parliament.”