Police custody following driving under the influence of cannabis: A prospective study

Traffic offences are a common cause of detention in police custody. We hypothesized that drug intoxication while driving could correspond to specific medical conditions of the detainees. Our objective was to evaluate medical features and addictive behaviours of suspected drug drivers and to collect data regarding assaults or injuries in these individuals. We conducted a prospective study (April 2010-December 2011) of suspected drug driving arrestees, who were compared to drink drivers or persons aged over 18 detained for other reasons. Data collected concerned persons' characteristics, reported assaults, and observed injuries. A total of 205 drivers were tested positive for drugs in blood, 116 were either positive for drugs in urine or saliva and negative in blood, or negative in urine. Cannabis-only users accounted for 201 of 205 drug drivers (98%). Suspected drug driving arrestees had good overall health rating. Drug drivers were younger than controls and requested more rarely medical examination (12% vs. 44%, P < 0.0001). They were rarely involved in addiction treatment (3%) and reported assaults or presented traumatic injuries less often than drink drivers and controls (8% vs. 38% and 25%, P < 0.0001). Drug drivers were less often alcohol abusers than controls. Their opinion on custody was better than that of controls and they were considered unconditionally fit for detention more frequently (99% vs. 77%, P < 0.0001). We conclude that arrested drug drivers were young, healthy, and infrequently reported assaults or presented traumatic injuries, which does not put them in a high risk medical condition. Medical care could include brief interventions on addictive behaviours. (c) 2013 Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.