Drugs and driving - new law to simplify screening process

Last week, MPs approved a new road safety plan (Draft Bill No 7985) covering not only stricter fines for smartphone use behind the wheel, but also the use of drugs among drivers. The new bill envisages changes to drugs screening.
Currently, police checks implementing sweat and saliva tests for drugs and medication are extremely resource intensive, says Alain Disiviscour, an adviser for the Ministry of Mobility. "In practice, this was complicated. Training officers was a very time-consuming process."

The Grand Ducal police requested amendments to streamline this process. Officers are now permitted to immediately order a urine or blood test in the four following cases:

• if the driver is about to consume drugs
• if the driver admits to having taken drugs
• if the driver has drugs on their person
• if their behaviour poses a visible road safety risk

The new tests will also deliver more precise results.
Another new addition to the law will be the option to immediately withdraw a driver's licence for the consumption of drugs or toxic substances. Previously, this was only permitted in cases of speeding or drink driving.

The law also foresees another extraordinary change - namely, sanctions will now be permitted for drivers who deliberately block speed cameras with their vehicles.

"There was an instance in which a person had deliberately parked their car in front of a radar, blocking the camera. This person was later acquitted in court because it was not considered a criminal offence. Previously, the destruction of a speed camera was a crime, but blocking one was not, until now." This act will be subject to sanctions, going forward.

The new law will also envisage changes to licence plates and vehicle documents. More details to follow.

Further reading: Traffic regulations updated to address smartphone use while driving