Driver drug use detected, on the rise

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Motorcycle drivers lead the drunk-driving statistics with 5.6 percent, according to the 2007 roadside survey conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Along with conducting BAC levels, the NHTSA surveys include tests for possible drug use as well as blood-alcohol concentration.

In 2007, the survey found 16.3 percent of nighttime, weekend drivers were drug positive. Drugs most commonly used by drivers were: 8.6 percent with marijuana, 3.9 percent with both cocaine and over-the-counter prescription drugs. Although drug use is on the rise, alcohol consumption was down to 2.2 percent in 1997 in comparison to 1973.

"This troubling data shows us, for the first time, the scope of drugged driving in America, and reinforces the need to reduce drug abuse," said Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy. "Drugged driving, like drunk driving, is a matter of public safety and health. It puts us all at risk and must be prevented."

Since some drugs can remain in the body for days or even weeks, the NHTSA is currently conducting further research to accurately assess how drug traces correspond to driver impairment. Depending upon that research, drug prevention videos and advertisements could become a part of the NHTSA's drunk driving prevention.

The 2007 survey involved more than 300 roadside locations throughout the U.S. The complete results can be found on the NHTSA's research note.