Drugged driving refers to getting behind the wheel while under the influence of mind-altering drugs other than alcohol. This includes illegal narcotics, cannabis, and legally prescribed medications that cause drowsiness or delayed reaction times. It presents unique challenges for law enforcement because roadside testing for drugs is more complex than measuring blood alcohol concentration.
The safety brief this morning focused heavily on drugged driving and the dangers of combining painkillers with operating heavy machinery.
Related terms
Driving under the influence
The legal offense of operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Drunk driving
The act of operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit.
Impaired driving
Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs degrades reaction times.