Pubdate: Thu, 22 Jun 2000
Source: Bergen Record (NJ)
Copyright: 2000 Bergen Record Corp.
Contact:  http://www.bergen.com/cgi-bin/feedback
Website: http://www.bergen.com/
Author: Walter G. Zinman

DRUG TEST DRIVERS IN FATAL ACCIDENTS

Regarding "Driver says car at fault in crash" (Page L-1, June 21):

I suggest that any driver who is involved in an accident that leads to 
fatalities or serious injury should automatically be tested for drugs and 
alcohol. I think this is sufficient cause. If it were not, then it would 
also be illegal to test train crews involved in serious rail accidents.

The driver of the Ford Mustang that killed Jeffrey Willick might have been 
staggering because of shock or diabetic problems. Conversely, a confirmed 
alcoholic might not have displayed any overt symptoms at all.

Years ago, I asked a certified blood technician whether he could estimate 
the blood alcohol level from appearance. He responded, "Definitely not."

Walter G. Zinman, Fort Lee, June 21
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