Diazepam, alcohol and drivers

Fifteen hundred drivers' blood samples have been analysed for the drug diazepam (Valium) over a three-year period. Of 1000 hospitalised drivers whose blood samples were forwarded to DSIR for alcohol analysis, diazepam was detected in 2.0% and alcohol in over 90%. Diazepam was found to a lesser extent in blood samples from 370 fatally injured drivers, and from 130 apprehended drivers who returned low blood alcohol levels. The significance of the levels of diazepam and its major metabolite in blood are discussed in relation to the blood alcohol level and consequent driving impairment.