The fight against drug-impaired driving in Orange County was awarded a $141,000 boost. The cash infusion, courtesy of the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), is earmarked for the Orange County Sheriff's Department – OC Crime Lab, to up their game in catching those driving under the influence of drugs (DUID). The grant will allow for not only rigorous testing but also specialized training.
The OC Crime Lab will now be able to consistently test all DUI blood samples for drugs, rather than focusing solely on blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes voiced his concern, stating, "We continue to see the impacts of legalization of marijuana and the increase of opioid abuse in our community, including on our roadways." Barnes continued, "Enhanced testing and training provided by this grant helps us hold accountable those who endanger our community by choosing to drive impaired," as per a statement obtained by the Orange County Sheriff's Department release.
Statistics show that drug-impaired driving is on an uptrend. In Orange County, over half of arrested DUI drivers have at least one impairing substance in their systems, drugs that are not alcohol. Marijuana, over-the-counter medications, and even prescription drugs can impair drivers, especially when mixed with alcohol, leading to dangerous road situations and, subsequently, DUI charges.
OTS Director Barbara Rooney highlighted the issue, "Drug-impaired driving is a significant problem in California." Rooney added, "Effective drug testing is needed to combat the rise in cases and assist in the prosecution of those who put lives at risk." The Orange County Sheriff's Department also reminds drivers that even legally consumed substances, such as prescription medications and marijuana, can impair one's ability to drive safely. Thus, people should be aware that "DUI Doesn't Just Mean Booze," and mixing such substances with alcohol can likely lead to arrest and prosecution.
The funding for this initiative comes from a grant provided by the Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, aiming to curb the menace of drug-impaired driving and ensure safer roads for all.
