The number of drivers in Belgium caught driving under the influence of drugs has surged by 30% over the past five years, according to figures released by the

Vias transport institute. In 2023, a total of 12,636 drivers tested positive for drugs, averaging almost 35 drivers per day. Notably, one in six of these drivers had consumed more than one type of drug.

Cannabis remains the most commonly detected drug among drivers, accounting for 58% of positive tests, followed by cocaine, amphetamines, and opiates like heroin and morphine, according to the National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology.

Combining Drugs

The institute also revealed that one in six drivers who tested positive had combined different types of drugs. For instance, 9% of samples contained both cocaine and cannabis, while 3% had a combination of cocaine and amphetamines. In 2% of cases, drivers had taken three types of drugs.

Vias highlighted the severe impact of drug-impaired driving on road safety. Drivers who combine different drugs are five to 30 times more likely to be involved in accidents.

In response to these findings, Vias is advocating for an increase in roadside drug tests and systematic testing in all accidents resulting in death or injury. Photo by Dickelbers, Wikimedia commons.