Police to get power to stop and test drug drivers

The Governement is to introduce new laws within a fortnight that will give police new powers to administer a blood test on drivers thought to be driving under the influence of drugs.

The move comes after National rode to the rescue of Labour on the proposed new laws, which had been stymied by disagreement by New Zealand First and the Greens over the legislation.

"National would support any sensible measures that would stop people driving while impaired by anything," said National transport spokesman Maurice Williamson.

He said he was happy to have the measure cover not just illegal drugs, but also legal prescription drugs.

"Some people get all sorts of medication prescribed to them, and often the doctors tell them this will impair your ability to drive a car," Williamson said.

"I would hope we have a way of stopping anyone abusing that as well. The road toll is still ghastly."

He said he had been "staggered" Transport Minister Annette King had not asked him if National would back the legislation, which would give Labour the numbers it needed in the House.

Told of National's support for the measures, a spokesman for King said she was "very pleased commonsense had prevailed". As a result legislation would be introduced in the "next week or two".

Police already have the power to charge those considered to be incapable of driving through suspected drug use, but it is legally difficult to prove, and rarely used.

The Land Transport Amendment Bill would lower the legal threshold of being impaired by illegal drugs and give police the power to do roadside co-ordination tests if a driver seemed impaired but passed a breath test.

A motorist believed to be on drugs would have to undergo a blood test.

If illegal drugs were found in the blood drivers would face the same penalties as if caught drink-driving: up to three months in prison, or a fine of up to $4500, and at least six months' disqualification.

- © Fairfax NZ News