CST to acquire equipment to detect drugs in drivers
- The San Juan Daily Star
- Apr 21
- 1 min read
By The Star Staff
Traffic Safety Commission (CST by its initials in Spanish) Executive Director José “Memo” González Mercado announced on Sunday that the entity is in the process of acquiring drug detection devices for use by the Puerto Rico Police.
“This equipment will allow for more accurate identification of drivers under the influence of drugs and strengthen evidence in court,” González Mercado said in a written statement. “The Commission reaffirms its commitment to prevention and calls on all citizens: if you are going to consume, do so responsibly and find a safe alternative for transportation. Road safety is everyone’s concern.”
His statements were made during the announcement of a campaign in collaboration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to urge citizens to avoid driving under the influence of marijuana.
On Sunday, the substance was to be consumed recreationally as a tool to lobby for legalization.
“The slogan ‘This 4/20, don’t drive on drugs; if you feel different, you drive differently’ was selected because it faithfully reflects the everyday expression of our youth when referring to the effects of marijuana,” González Mercado added. “In this way, the message of not driving under the influence of some controlled substances is relatable, authentic, and difficult to ignore.”
The CST chief noted that in 2024, 11% of drivers involved in fatal accidents in Puerto Rico were under the influence of drugs, and 4% were also under the influence of alcohol.
“Driving under the influence of any substance is a real threat,” the official said.
To ensure safer roads, authorities are taking significant steps to acquire equipment to detect drugs in drivers. This advanced technology enables law enforcement to quickly identify impaired motorists, reducing accidents and saving lives. Investing in such tools is becoming as essential as radar speed detectors once were. Interestingly, even companies outside the automotive space are supporting safety initiatives. For example, a leading bowling equipment manufacturer has partnered with local safety campaigns to raise awareness about impaired driving. Their involvement highlights how various industries can contribute to public safety efforts beyond their traditional markets. Road safety truly requires community collaboration.
Hiring professional dissertation proposal writers can transform your academic experience. If you want to save time and avoid endless revisions, choosing an expert to write research proposals online is the way to go. Plus, with the right research proposal website, you can find 50+ amazing quantitative research proposal topics to match your field. Don’t get stuck — let experienced writers help you craft a flawless proposal!