Citation

Wehr K, Maier RD. Blutalkohol 1980; 17(6): 411-418.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1980, International Committee on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety and Bund gegen Alkohol und Drogen im Straßenverkehr, Publisher Steintor Verlag)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper presents toxicologic findings of specimens from 145 drivers suspected of driving under the influence of hypnotics or drugs and/or ethanol during the period 1974-1979, in the region of Aachen (German Federal Republic). 78 blood and urine samples and 67 urine samples of 145 drivers were submitted for analysis. Since 1977 the number of persons arrested in border traffic has increased as well as routine traffic controls. The incidence of traffic accident involvement was constant during the observed period. The positive results of analyses for hypnotic and other drugs showed an increasing tendency from 1976/1977, as did the negative results, however. Morphine dominated in the group of hypnotics; benzodiazepines predominated in the therapeutic drug group, followed by sedatives (barbiturates, methaqualone and bromoureides). The incidence of hypnotics was high in age groups under 30 years. With increase in age the incidence of other drugs also increased. To improve proof in court and the evaluation of medico-legal aspects with regard to a higher traffic safety it is emphasized that simultaneous blood and urine sampling coupled with a skillful medical examination should be demanded.