NEW TESTS FOR SUSPECTED 'DRUGGED' DRIVERS

WINNIPEG -- Manitoba drivers suspected of being high on drugs will be asked
to perform a specific series of tasks, including standing on one leg while
counting out loud.

"Police can determine if a person is impaired by how they perform on the
tests," said David Greening of the provincial Justice Department.

While police can use breathalyzers to test for alcohol impairment, they do
not have machines to test for drug impairment. So the province has had to
develop a standardized motor-skills test for suspected drug users.

The drivers will first be told to look at an object in the officer's hand
and follow it as the officer moves it.

Drivers will then be required to walk in a straight line while counting the
number of steps out loud, turning around, and taking the same number of
steps in return.

Finally, the drivers will have to raise one foot and count out loud while
keeping their eyes on the raised foot.

Having a standard test across the province should ensure that drivers are
treated fairly, said Greening.