Drugs and driving remained as a minor problem in Finland for several decades. In 1998, the number of suspected drunken drivers was 22855 and the number of drivers suspected to drive under influence of drugs was 1323. Until 1985, yearly only few illegal drug cases among drivers were found. During the last years, there has been a marked increase in number of apprehended drivers driving under influence of illegal drugs. The statistics of the National Public Health Institute show that the number of suspected drug cases, the number of positive findings and drug abuse have increased, whereas drinking and driving has decreased during the past fifteen years in Finland. The most frequently detected illegal drugs are amphetamine and cannabis. Multi-drug use is commonly found (1998: two or more illegal drugs >30%). The most commonly detected medicinal drugs have been benzodiazepines.
Abstract