Cannabis-impaired driving may not be new, but has come to the forefront with legalization. CAA wants you to have the information to make safe decisions for yourself and your loved ones.
Research into effects of cannabis on driving
Young Canadians are more at risk of a vehicle crash even five hours after inhaling cannabis, according to results of a clinical trial conducted at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC) and McGill University, and funded by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA).
The research found that performance declined significantly, in key areas such as reaction time, even five hours after inhaling the equivalent of less than one typical joint. The participants’ driving performance, which was tested in a driving simulator, deteriorated as soon as they were exposed to the kinds of distractions common on the road.
Myths about cannabis and driving
Cannabis doesn’t affect my ability to drive
False. Driving under the influence of marijuana affects your ability to drive safely and you’re at a greater risk of getting into an accident.
Police can’t check if I’ve consumed weed
False. Police officers across Canada can administer roadside tests to check for impairment. These can include testing devices or calling in specially trained drug recognition officers.
I’m not going far so it’s okay
False. 45% of accidents happen near the home. Driving in a familiar setting makes drivers less attentive, and marijuana has been shown to reduce a driver’s concentration.
CAA has been working with the government to ensure road safety is a top priority during the legalization of cannabis.
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