Record positive drug tests: fining is not enough

Drug driving controls reach historic figures, revealing that financial penalties and point deductions do not deter drivers. The DGT insists on punishing, but avoids addressing the root of the problem: lack of public transport in rural areas and accessible rehabilitation programs. It is an approach that prioritizes revenue collection over genuine prevention.

nighttime roadside drug test checkpoint, police officer holding a testing swab near a car window, driver looking away with tense expression, positive test result appearing on a handheld electronic device screen, empty rural road stretching behind, no bus stop or train station visible, distant dark fields, cinematic photorealistic style, dramatic side lighting from patrol car headlights, blue and red reflections on wet asphalt, steam rising from car exhaust, officer’s uniform showing bodycam and radio, car interior dimly lit with dashboard warning lights, high detail fabric textures and plastic surfaces, realistic night photography aesthetic

Technology to detect, not to prevent 🚦

Current devices, such as breathalyzers and saliva tests, allow precise identification of cannabis, cocaine, or amphetamine use. However, their use is limited to imposing penalties. A smarter application would integrate these sensors into vehicle blocking systems for repeat offenders, combined with mobility apps that offer alternative transport routes in real time. The technology exists; the will to apply it as a deterrent tool is lacking.

The DGT and its blind faith in the credit card 💳

It seems the DGT believes the wallet is the driver's only sensitive organ. As if, upon seeing the fine, the cannabis would magically evaporate from the body. Meanwhile, in the villages, you have to choose between driving or staying home watching TV. Perhaps the next step will be to install card readers at traffic lights: if you test positive, you pay right there and continue on your way. Less prevention, more cash.