Uni to test ice addicts behind the wheel

A university researcher is inviting dozens of methamphetamine addicts to visit his campus in the name of science.

University of Sydney's David Bosanquet has put a call-out for users of the drug — known as ice — to take part in a driving simulator test in the hope that he can better understand how the substance affects those behind the wheel.

Despite concerns about having multiple drug users in the same place, Mr Bosanquet believes the experiments are extremely important and will be conducted in a safe environment.

"I've formally worked at the national drug and alcohol research centre … and worked with a lot of meth users," he said.

"If they were floridly intoxicated, [I wouldn't allow them on the simulator] because it's usually in that state that they will get aggressive and violent.

"It's not risky, we're not giving them anything — they're already users who are just coming in and being tested."

While the research centre is offering ice users reimbursement "to cover travel and out-of-pocket expenses", Mr Bosanquet was quick to ease any fears that his team is paying addicts for their drug use as volunteers are rewarded with a $30 Woolworths voucher rather than cash.

"Methamphetamines can have a devastating effect on driver safety, both during and after drug use, and is a factor in numerous road accidents and fatalities," he said.

"Yet we know almost nothing about how methamphetamines actually contribute to driver error."

The super-realistic driving simulator, which was bought recently for $15,000, features three-dimensional projections on all three front windows in the body of a disused car.

The subjects will deal with real-life situations, including traffic lights and pedestrians, to test their reflexes while special goggles monitor eye movements.

A blood test will be taken to measure the amount of methamphetamine in their system, which can remain in the body for up to four days after use.

"One theory holds that meth use increases the chances that a driver will engage in risky and dangerous driving behaviour," Mr Basanquet said.

"Since roadside drug testing was implemented in 2006, millions of dollars has been spent to test, charge and sentence those found guilty.

"It’s important to understand the science behind this sort of initiative."

The university study has received several calls since yesterday but are still appealing for more suitable volunteers.