Increase in drivers caught under the influence of drugs

In 2012, 2,552 drivers have their license withdrawn for driving under the influence of drugs after a positive saliva test. The figure represents a 10% increase on the previous year,  reports De Gazet van Antwerpen. Since their introduction, saliva drug tests are often conducted in parallel with traditional alcohol breath tests. "The dangers are equally important," says the federal police. In 2010, 2,261 drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of controlled substances. "The drugs are mostly cannabis, but also cocaine and even heroin," said magistrate Peter D'Hondt. The Belgian Institute for Road Safety (IBSR) demands more checks "because these clearly yield results, just like awareness campaigns do”. “Last year, fewer driving licenses were withdrawn for drink-driving offences," said a spokeswoman for the institute.