It's time to take action against drug-drivers (From Warrington Guardian)

It's time to take action against drug-drivers

POLICE in Warrington could be the first officers in Cheshire to target drivers who get behind the wheel while high on drugs.

Officers in the town are being trained in US-style impairment tests to arrest motorists under the influence of drugs such as cannabis and speed.

It is believed that the Warrington division is seeking permission for the town to be used as a pilot site for a national 'drug drive' initiative.

There are currently no roadside tests for drug-drivers, but officers are learning simple new techniques, including assessing pupil dilation, balance and coordination, to catch motorists breaking the law.

Sgt Mike Jones, from Warrington's road policing unit, said: "There is no defined drug limit at the moment so it comes down to the opinion of the officer. We have to call a police surgeon and deem the individual unfit to drive."

Even people taking prescribed medication, like cold and flu remedies, could find their driving impaired if they exceed their intake.

Figures show that more drivers are being caught with a cocktail of substances in their blood, sometimes mixing drugs with alcohol.

And drivers refusing to co-operate with these basic roadside tasks - if the initiative goes ahead - could be committing an offence.

While the problems caused by drink-driving are well publicised, the initiative is designed to address previously uncharted territory.

Along with officials from the Warrington Road Safety Partnership, council bosses could visit transport business to educate them about the perils of drug driving.

Town Hall bosses considered the moves after Ruth Spedding, a top A&E consultant at Warrington Hospital, voiced concerns about the increasing number of drug-related motorists coming into hospital.