“Tests reveal several narcotics”: The Haute-Garonne prefecture increases the number of roadside screenings each year

What penalties are incurred by drivers under the influence of drugs?

The law has been the same since 2019. The penalties incurred can go (without aggravating circumstances) up to two years of imprisonment and a fine of 4,500 euros, accompanied by a withdrawal of 6 points from the driving license, in the case of a non-recidivist.

How many fatal accidents are there in Haute-Garonne linked to drug consumption?

Unfortunately, in September there were five fatal accidents involving driving under the influence of drugs, a stable figure compared to the same period in 2023 (6). But a higher number of road deaths from all causes (39 in 2024 compared to 35 for the same period in 2023), a sign that road safety must remain everyone's concern. It is important to specify that certain situations cannot be counted, for example in the case of hit-and-runs.

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Are you strengthening roadside screening?

To help combat addictive behavior, screenings are carried out during roadside checks. Between 2022 and 2024, we note an increase each year in the number of screenings carried out in Haute-Garonne. Drugged driving is a scourge and a risk multiplier in many ways. The police are continuing checks on a massive scale.

Can all narcotics be detected by saliva tests?

The tests are used to reveal the intake of several narcotic products from the 4 categories: THC (cannabis), synthetic drugs (amphetamine, methamphetamine, etc.), cocaine and opiates.

Are there cases where the driver can refuse to submit to drug testing?

In the event of refusal, drivers face the same penalties as those provided for driving after using drugs.