One in six Belgian motorists who tested positive had used several drugs, according to study

A total of 12,636 drivers tested positive for one or more drugs in 2023, representing an average of 35 fines per day, according to Belgian road safety institute Vias.

This was a 30% increase compared to 2019. In addition, one in six drivers who tested positive had used several drugs, reports RTBF.

In Belgium, nearly 80% of saliva analyses are carried out by the National Institute of Forensics and Criminology (INCC). The results of the 2023 samples show that cannabis remains the most commonly used drug: 58% of saliva samples contain it, said Vias.

Next comes cocaine, present in one in three saliva samples (33%), then amphetamines (13%) and opiates (heroin, morphine) (2%). One in six drivers was positive for several drugs (17%).

The combination of cannabis and cocaine, for example, is observed in approximately one in 10 positive drivers (9%). One in 50 drivers tested positive for three drugs (2%).

According to Vias, drivers under the influence of several drugs are five to 30 times more likely to be involved in an accident, depending on the type of drug and the amount consumed.

The drugs presenting the highest risk of accidents are amphetamines, in particular because of their stimulating effects on the central nervous system.

In its memorandum published before the elections, Vias called for systematic drug testing in the event of an accident. Given these findings, it is reiterating this request.

In Belgium, when a driver is found driving under the influence of drugs, a court summons is immediately issued.

Photo: ©Belga