If a Gárda suspects a driver of drug driving, what additional test may they request?

When a Gárda suspects a driver of drug driving, they may request a saliva sample as an additional test. Saliva testing is a non-invasive way to screen for the presence of drugs in a person’s system. It allows for immediate results and can detect various substances, making it a practical tool for law enforcement in roadside drug testing scenarios.

Saliva testing is specifically designed to identify recent drug use, which is critical in situations where impairment needs to be assessed quickly. This method is also advantageous because it can be administered on-site, allowing officers to evaluate drivers without the need for more invasive or time-consuming procedures. The use of saliva samples has been gaining acceptance in many regions due to its efficiency and overall effectiveness in addressing drug-driving offenses.

In contrast, while blood and urine samples are valid methods for testing, they usually involve more extensive procedures and are typically conducted in clinical or laboratory settings. Breath samples are primarily associated with alcohol testing, making them unsuitable for detecting drugs like saliva tests can. Therefore, the use of saliva samples by the Gárda aligns with modern practices in roadside drug detection and prevention of impaired driving.