PHYSICAL TESTS CATCH OUT DRUG-DRIVERS

A BIZARRE new roadside test for drug-drivers, which involves a suspect
standing on one leg or touching his own nose, has proved more successful in
catching motorists under the influence of narcotics than anything science
could offer, writes Peter Laing.

The first results from the test, used when a car has been stopped for
driving erratically, showed that every driver who failed the new test was
later proved by a blood test to be under the influence of drugs.

The results are particularly significant because all those who took the
roadside test had already passed a breathalyser and would otherwise have
escaped serious charges.

They show that the test - which has been used alongside chemical tests
including sweat and saliva swabs - is by far the most effective at
detecting that an erratic driver is under the influence of drugs.

The Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland has decided to go ahead
with the Scotland-wide introduction of the tests, although a date has not
been set.

Police are increasingly concerned by the problem of people who drive while
under the influence of drugs. The situation has been exacerbated by the
problem of finding an equivalent to the breathalyser test for alcohol.

The physical tests, which are used in the US, Sweden and Norway, hark back
to old-fashioned drink-driving tests.

They consist of five key elements : the size of drivers' pupils are
examined for signs of narrowing or dilation; they are asked to walk nine
steps, putting one foot directly in front of the other, and then to turn
and repeat the process; they are then asked to estimate the passing of 30
seconds; next, they have to stand on one leg and count upwards from 1,000;
finally, each suspect has to place a finger on his nose six times,
alternating arms.

Officers look for other giveaway signs of drug use while carrying out the
tests, including red eyes, distraction and herb-like smells.

Those who fail the drug examination have to be taken to a police station
and give a blood sample.