|
Download Experts are debating whether driving after drug use should be considered a criminal offense after a bus driver who used drugs and drove caused a fatal traffic accident in Jiangsu province on April 22 that killed 14 people and injured 20 others. "We are working with the anti-drug department to conduct further research on the potential risks caused by driving after drug use, and preparing to promote the legislation," said a statement released by the Ministry of Public Security. It's a move many experts have been calling for. "Severe punishment would be a strong deterrent to drug-addicted drivers, and have an instant effect in solving the problem," said Hong Daode, a professor from China University of Political Science and Law. He said that according to a British study, the reaction time of drunken drivers is 12 percent slower under the influence of alcohol compared with sober ones. However, a driver under the influence of drugs is nearly two times slower than a drunken driver, and 21 percent slower than a sober driver. "So drug-addicted drivers have poor capability in reacting to different circumstances and to control themselves, which will bring great harm to other people and society," he said. Drunk driving is a criminal offense in China, and drunken drivers face sentences of between one and six months as well as fines. Dai Peng, deputy director of the criminal investigation department under Chinese People's Public Security University, echoed Hong, saying it is necessary for drug-addicted drivers to beheld criminally accountable and face penalties. | 
