Traffic enforcement reveals high rates of drug and alcohol use among drivers

Recent traffic enforcement data from the Basque Country and Quito highlight ongoing issues with driving under the influence of substances.

In the Basque Country, Ertzaintza reports that 35% of drivers tested for drugs between January and May tested positive for narcotics. This represents a slight decrease from the 35.7% positivity rate recorded during the same period last year. Out of 2,809 tests conducted, 982 drivers tested positive. The highest positivity rate, at 78.7%, was found among drivers caught committing traffic infractions. Additionally, 35.7% of drivers involved in traffic accidents tested positive for drugs.

In Quito, the Agencia Metropolitana de Tránsito (AMT) apprehended 49 drivers for driving under the influence of alcohol between August 10 and 16. Among those detained, 19 individuals had blood alcohol levels exceeding 1.2 g/l. The group of apprehended drivers included 40 private vehicle operators, eight motorcyclists, and one freight vehicle driver. Penalties for these offenses, governed by the Organic Integral Penal Code (COIP), include fines, imprisonment, and license suspension depending on the alcohol concentration detected.