MOTORISTS are set to be subjected to roadside drug testing for the first time this Christmas.

Roadside drug driving tests will be carried out as part of Lancashire police’s annual drink and drug driving campaign.

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The festive crackdown, which aims to educate drivers about the dangers of drinking and taking drugs before driving, will see police carrying out high-profile checks at key locations across the county throughout December.

Officers will use saliva testing kits alongside the standard breath tests, meaning motorists will not only be tested for the alcohol but also for cannabis and cocaine.

Modelled on drink-driving tests, the legislation, introduced in March, makes it an offence for motorists to drive with certain drugs above a specified level in their blood.

This years’ campaign, launched today, will see police joined by Lancashire County Council’s Wasted Lives team and other emergency services.

Officers will demonstrate the drug drive testing equipment to the public and a car from a fatal road traffic collision, in which a man died after drink driving, will go on display to show the devastating impact it can have.

Last year, 5,012 drink drive tests were carried out across the county in December.

Of these, 153 people failed the test and four refused to provide a specimen, resulting in a failure rate of 3.1 per cent.

Inspector Andy Trotter said: “This Christmas will be the first year we have used the new drug-testing kits alongside standard kits for alcohol testing, which means we are better equipped than ever to identify those who take this very dangerous risk.

“We will also be focusing our activity on late night revellers who may still be over the limit the morning after, and we are particularly keen to get the message across to young drivers, who may be tempted to take the risk. The consequences can be absolutely devastating.”

A total of 16 drugs come under the new legislation, and eight of these are prescription drugs, he said.

“People need to be aware that if they are taking prescription drugs, they must be compliant with the instructions,” added Insp Trotter.

People who suspect someone of driving under the influence of drink or drugs should call 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, he said.