The Maltese Association of Psychiatry, in collaboration with Doctors for Road Safety and the Foundation for Social Welfare Services, have issued a Position Paper on Drug-Driving: Driving under the influence of Psychoactive Drugs
The aim of this paper is to establish the position of the collaborating organisations at this point in time with regard to this very relevant and actual issue. The secondary aim is to stimulate discussion amongst partners and decision makers on the subject matter, and hopefully help formulate policies and actions to curb abuse and improve road safety.
We recommend the following:
1) Establish clear guidelines regarding acceptable substance levels in the body fluids while driving, based on scientific evidence and international best practices.
2) Invest in the deployment and implementation of road-side tests capable of detecting impairment caused by illicit drugs to improve enforcement efforts.
3) Allocate resources for conducting a comprehensive study on drug-driving in Malta,
4) Enhance training and presence of enforcement officers on Maltese roads.
5) Introduce urgently a legal framework to enable random testing for psychoactive substances.
6) We strongly recommend the concomitant use of a breathalyzer test for alcohol alongside any roadside drug test.
7) Review and update existing legislation to incorporate penalties for the use of psychoactive drugs combined with alcohol, reflecting the increased risk to road safety.
8) Implement random screening of professional drivers.
By taking these steps, we can better protect the lives of road users and create safer roads for everyone in Malta in relation to the use of drugs and driving. It is crucial that we address drug-driving as a serious issue and work together to ensure the well-being of our community.
Click here to access the full position paper.
If you or one of your loved ones is going through a substance-related issue seek help by reaching out to a healthcare professional or contact one of the following agencies: