Suspected drugged drivers refusing saliva test to face NT$180,000 fine

Taipei, Nov. 20 (CNA) Drivers suspected of drug-impaired driving who refuse to take a rapid saliva test at a police checkpoint will now face a fine of NT$180,000 (US$5,763), according to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC).

The updated Uniform Punishment Standard Forms and Rules for Handling Matters of Violating Road Traffic Regulations, announced Wednesday, require the entire testing process to be recorded by police.

Tests are to be administered on-site at a checkpoint, though officers may direct the individual to a police station or another suitable location if needed.

Under the new rules, officers must inform the individual of the testing procedure, the kit's expiration date, how the results are interpreted and the valid time window for reading the results.

If a test fails due to a kit malfunction or because the individual does not follow the procedure, officers must explain the reason and ask the individual to retake it.

After the test, the officer must inform the driver of the result and request a signature on the enforcement record form. If the individual refuses to sign, the reason must be documented, the MOTC said.

The ministry said the updates provide clearer procedures for officers and strengthen the regulations' legal basis.

The revisions took effect Wednesday and align with the Criminal Investigation Bureau's (CIB) plan, announced in late September, to fully introduce rapid saliva drug tests capable of detecting drug residues in about three minutes.

The CIB previously said the move follows practices in several developed countries and aims to curb rising drug-driving incidents.

Drivers who refuse testing must be informed of the legal consequences, which include an NT$180,000 fine, revocation of their driver's license, and a two-year suspension of their vehicle license plate. If the refusal occurs in a case involving serious injury or death, the vehicle may also be seized.

Repeat offenders within 10 years face a heavier fine of NT$360,000 for refusing a saliva test.

For slow-moving vehicle operators, including scooter, motorcycle, or bicycle riders, the fine is NT$4,800 for refusal. For those riding light electric scooters, the vehicle will also be impounded.