Drug Driving Offences SA

Random roadside saliva test to detect traces of cannabis, ice and ecstasy is being conducted by the police authorities in South Australia. Under the Road Traffic Act 1961, it is an offence to drive or attempt to drive a motor vehicle while there are traces of prescribed drugs in his or her body fluids or blood. The defence of the person charged with this is to prove that he or she did not knowingly consume or take the prescribed drug found in her or his body fluid or blood. If convicted of this offence, the court must give an order disqualifying him or her from obtaining a driver’s licence.

From February 1, 2010 drivers caught with prescribed drug traces in her or his body fluids or blood will face the tougher penalty of three month licence disqualification if he is convicted for the first time. He will also be required to undergo drug dependency assessment and will pay a fine of $1, 600. This was implemented because drug driving is one of the major contributors to deaths and injuries in South Australia road accidents.

Drivers under the influence of alcohol or prescribed drugs who have caused injury or death to another person while driving a motor vehicle may be charged with additional criminal offence and sentenced for imprisonment.

Our drink driving lawyers will advise you of the potential penalties and provide you with no obligation all inclusive fixed fee quote. Their services can, help you to minimise the legal charges against you and they will represent your case in court. Our Drink Driving Lawyers can also advise you of your chances in obtaining a Section 10 of the Crimes Act of Crimes Act non conviction order. A section 10 is an order of the Court that may be made if your lawyer is able to persuade the courts not to record a conviction, not to fine you and to allow you to keep your drivers licence.