There are more drivers under the influence of drugs than drunk drivers on Polish roads.
This alarming conclusion is the effect of research conducted by DRUID, a programme of the EU concerning road safety.
Statistics point that 2.5 percent of Polish drivers have taken some kind of narcotic before driving, while only one out of a hundred drinking alcohol.
The problem lies in lack of information about the effects of driving under influence of drugs, says Ilona Buttler from the Institute of Car Transport, adding that the traffic regulations in Poland do not separate drugs from alcohol.
This situation should be clarified, Buttler says. "Either we set a limit, like in the case of alcohol, where a minimal dose is specified, or we come up with new regulations banning driving after using drugs."
A driver under the influence of drugs is punished on the same basis as a drunk driver, and can be fined or face up to two years in prison. If a driver causes a fatal accident, sentences can last up to 12 years. (ab/jb)