Drug Recognition Experts | Video

Retha Colclasure | 12/10/2012

Officers on patrol don`t only have to look out for drunk drivers, they also need to keep an eye out for drugged drivers. The Highway Patrol has been overseeing the state`s Drug Recognition Expert program for four years. DREs are trained to evaluate if a person pulled over is under the influence of narcotics.

They see people who have taken either illegal street drugs or prescription medication. The Highway Patrol says drugs have been a factor in 19 percent of the state`s traffic fatalities.

"If there`s impairment to the point that it`s affecting their ability to drive a motor vehicle safely, it doesn`t matter if it`s taken illegally or actually prescribed to them," said officer Colt Bohn with the Bismarck Police Department.

In 2009, there were 36 evaluations for drugged drivers statewide. So far this year, the number is up to 192.

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