DRUGS and driving are a combination that will never end well, according to Leeton's police Inspector Justin Cornes.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Inspector Cornes has discussed the dangers involved with getting behind the wheel while under the influence of illicit substances, but said even prescribed medicines can also have an impact.
Leeton shire motorists who take prescription medicine for some conditions will have been warned it can make them tired and they should not be driving if they are feeling fatigued.
Inspector Cornes said police were focusing on educating drivers about the dangers of "drug driving", as well as continuing to push the message of "if you drink and drive, you will get caught".
"We see it time and time again ... driving under the influence (of drugs or alcohol) impairs your decision-making abilities," Inspector Cornes said.
"Whether that be alcohol or illicit substances. You aren't making sound decisions.
"We perform mobile drug testing all throughout regional NSW. It is right across NSW.
"Given two-thirds of last year's road toll occurred in regional NSW, there is obviously a need for us to continue this drug testing and random breath testing."
MORE NEWS
Using stimulants, including illicit substances like ecstasy and cocaine, all increase the risk of a collision.
Psychoactive substances affect the mental state of the person taking them and increase the risk of having a motor vehicle collision. Sedatives, opioids and stimulants are of particular concern.
Inspector Cornes said there was a need to continue educating the community about the dangers of driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, saying it shouldn't take a serious or fatal accident for people to "wake up" and realise the dangers.
"We do need to continue educating the public but it's about taking responsibility as well," he said.