This report summarises existing knowledge of licit/illicit drugs, including alcohol, related to road safety based on selected international and Danish literature, including Danish accident statistics. Internationally, the present situation is characterised by uncertainty about the prevalence and role of licit/illicit drugs on road safety. Despite large differences, most international studies indicate that especially benzodiazepines, cannabis, heroine, cocaine and amphetamines are increasingly found in killed and injured road users - alone or with alcohol. In spite of few Danish investigations, similar trends are found in blood samples from Danish drivers. However, a 10-year review of accident statistics shows rather stable figures for licit/illicit drugs including alcohol, annually about 5% all Danish alcohol-related accidents. International calculations indicate that the risk of a fatal accident is significantly increased for drug-impaired drivers. Especially alcohol in combination with benzodiazepines and illicit drugs result in an indefinitely risk increase. Some countries have or will strengthen legislation and police enforcement against illicit drugs and driving. Further, various international initiatives are taken to classify and label drugs hazardous to driving more specifically. As in Denmark only sparse knowledge exist, the report recommends a number of initiatives that may be conducted separately or in co-operation between various countries. (A)
Abstract