The procedure for testing drivers for alcohol and illegal substances has recently undergone changes. Find out more about how alcohol and drug testing will be conducted in Ukraine in 2024

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In June, it became known that the procedure for testing Ukrainian drivers for alcohol and drugs had been changed. The procedure and the main innovations are described below.

New rules for testing drivers for alcohol and drugs

Recently, Taras Melnychuk, a representative of the Cabinet of Ministers, announced that in order to maintain road safety and reduce the risk of road accidents, changes have been made to the procedure for testing drivers for alcohol and drugs.

The most important innovation is a mandatory laboratory test of the driver, carried out at the place of the stop.

Police officers can stop and test a driver with signs of intoxication for alcohol or drugs at any time of the day using certified blood alcohol content meters and rapid drug tests.

It is noted that for transparency and confirmation of the legality of the tests, the presence of two witnesses or video recording is mandatory.

In the event of a positive drug or alcohol test, the results must be confirmed by laboratory tests at a medical facility. If the use of alcohol or illegal substances is confirmed, drivers will be held liable in accordance with applicable law.

These changes are aimed at improving safety on Ukrainian roads and preventing driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

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The procedure for testing a driver for alcohol: what do you need to know about the test?

Police officers can test a driver for alcohol and drugs if there are visible signs. The main ones are:

● the smell of alcohol;
● impaired speech and coordination of movements;
● trembling of the fingers;
● inappropriate or strange behaviour that does not match the situation;
● сonstricted or dilated pupils that do not respond to light;
● slowed down or, on the contrary, increased liveliness or mobility of gait, speech;
● redness or excessive pallor of the face.

In the presence of these signs, police officers must conduct alcohol and drug tests. The examination is carried out only with the use of certified and verified devices approved by the Ministry of Health and the State Consumer Standard.

Before the test, the police officer must explain to the driver how to use the device and provide the relevant documents (certificate of conformity and verification certificate).

Inspection at the place of vehicle stop must be carried out in the presence of two witnesses or recorded on video. Police officers and persons whose impartiality is in doubt may not be witnesses.

Remember that compliance with traffic rules is a guarantee of safety on the road not only for the driver but also for other road users.

Keep in mind that insurance is mandatory for all vehicles in Ukraine.

Motor Third Party Liability Insurance (MTPL) is a compulsory vehicle insurance in Ukraine that guarantees compensation for damages in the event of an accident. On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can buy a motor third party liability insurance policy from a licensed insurer for reliable protection on Ukrainian roads. Packages with a deductible of UAH 3200, UAH 1600 and UAH 0 are available.

Just a reminder. Due to the heatwave that hit Ukraine this summer, car owners may face problems caused by high temperatures. Find out how to properly care for your car in the heat here.

Photo: Freepik

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