Knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of NSW drug drivers

In December 2006 legislation was introduced giving police the power to test any driver involved in a fatal crash for any drug, and to carry out roadside drug testing on any driver, rider or supervising licence holder in NSW for the active component of cannabis (THC), methylamphetamine (also known as speed, ice, crystal meth, or base) and MDMA (ecstasy). Police have been conducting roadside drug testing since January 2007 on both heavy and light vehicle drivers.
This study examined knowledge, attitudes and self-reported behaviours with regards to drug driving to identify any behavioural shifts following the commencement of roadside drug testing in NSW. It involved a telephone survey of 501 licensed drivers who have used illicit drugs in the past three months. The results indicate a drug driving prevalence rate of 3.6% in NSW, and the majority of drug users (80%) are aware that police have the ability to conduct roadside drug testing. The study investigated demographic predictors of drug driving, knowledge and attitudes with regards to drug driving law enforcement, the types of drugs used by drivers, and attitudes and social acceptability of drug driving.