Not just the booze: Polysubstance use among fatally injured drivers

EXTENDED ABSTRACT: Alcohol is regarded as a significant cause of driver impairment. In more recent years however, concern has been growing over the use and abuse of illicit substances and prescription pharmaceuticals that can impair driving performance. The analysis of the toxicology records of N=1,375 drivers fatally injured in Western Australia 2000-2012 showed that over six in ten tested positive for either alcohol, illicit drugs and various pharmaceuticals alone or in combination. The identification of the presence of multiple, potentially impairing substances highlights the need to review current policies and practices in relation to the enforcement and management of substance impaired driving.