TAMS have posted a lengthy and occasionally over-optimistic Drink and drug driving laws for the ACT web page.
The new laws take effect at midnight.
The big changes appear to be the knee jerk removal of the sensible .02 BAC for special drivers (so we can shout about zero tolerance without understanding successful zero tolerance campaigns).
And then there’s the drugs:
What about drug driving – when does random drug testing begin?
The ACT Legislative Assembly has passed new laws to permit roadside drug testing of motorists for the presence of cannabis, methamphetamine and ecstacy.
The new laws start on 1 December 2010, although random drug testing operations are not expected to commence until 2011.
From 1 December 2010, police will have the power to test blood taken from a driver under the Act in certain circumstances, such as where the driver is involved in a crash, to determine whether a prescribed illicit drug is present in the person’s blood.
What are the penalties for drug driving?
The maximum penalty for drug driving is a fine of 10 penalty units for a first offence, or 25 penalty units and up to 3 months imprisonment for a repeat offender.
A court can also order a period of licence disqualification.
Where do I go if I need help to address drug use and driving issues?
The ACT Department of Health’s Alcohol and Drug Program 24 Hour Intake and Helpline can assist in referring drug drivers with drug dependence issues to treatment providers. Please select the following link: ACT Health
One phone call is all it takes to access help – the phone number is 6207 9977.
Good luck with it it all people!