A leading police association has called for a radical review of the current laws on penalties issued to those caught driving while under the influence of drugs.

The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) wants penalties to be issued to all drug-impaired drivers, not just those whose driving was judged by officers to be impaired.

Some officers want swab tests for suspected drug-drivers to be introduced rather than the current method where police ask drivers to carry out a number of tasks to assess their alertness.

In light of the suggestions, fleets are being urged to have a drugs and alcohol policy in place.

Simon Truelove, specialist consultant at Grendonstar, which offers training courses on the drugs and alcohol misuse policies, said: “Everyone should be made aware of the need to be drug and alcohol-free at work, especially if they are driving.

“By introducing a policy, employers can help their employees understand and address the issues and protect their business should the worst case scenario happen.”

Motor manufacturer Nissan has recently revealed a new concept car with features to reduce drink- driving.

The car has alcohol odour sensors in the gear knob which detect alcohol in the perspiration of the driver’s palm and a facial monitoring system to monitor the driver’s state of consciousness through their eyes.