Drug use and simultaneous driving under the influence of drugs are by no means harmless. In addition to the health aspect, drugs at the wheel have devastating effects on the driver’s ability to drive.
Known? The consumption of drugs, alcohol and medication is the 2nd most common cause of fatal accidents in Switzerland!
Which drugs are most commonly consumed in road traffic?
The types of illicit drugs available are steadily increasing. In addition to cannabis (joint), most of the types of drugs that were determined during driving tests are strong drugs such as opiates, morphine, but also amphetamines, cocaine or the party drug ecstays (MDMA) are among the top drugs in road traffic.
What fines or sanctions are there for drug use at the wheel?
Anyone who drives a car or other vehicle under the influence of drugs takes a high risk, because the fines or consequences are drastic. In addition to the withdrawal of the driver’s license, there is also a risk of a high fine up to imprisonment.
How long is the driver’s license revoked?
- For at least 3 months , a person who has tested positive for the first time must surrender their driver’s license.
- A person must surrender their driving licence for at least 12 months if the person has tested positive for drug substances again within 5 years – after a first driving licence has been withdrawn.
- People who have tested positive for drugs three times within 10 years must surrender their driver’s license for at least two years.
- A definitive driver’s license is threatened with those people who have tested positive for drugs again after a 2-year driver’s license suspension.
What about insurance cover for drug use in road traffic?
Insurance benefits are also reduced in the event of an accident, provided that it can be proven that the driver was under the influence of drugs at the time of the accident. These power cuts can be very drastic and expensive for the driver. Costs that cause several CHF 10,000 are suddenly the financial responsibility of the driver. Depending on the severity of the offense, it is not uncommon for damages or costs in the amount of several hundred thousand francs, even millions!
Rapid drug tests prevail in road traffic checks
The police are increasingly using so-called „rapid drug tests“ during road traffic checks. These rapid tests allow the police officers on site – without further laboratory utensils – to substantiate an initial suspicion. Rapid drug tests are carried out on suspected drivers, which can detect various substances. The „drug saliva rapid test“ has become particularly well established.
