On October 17, 2018 recreational cannabis was legalized in Canada. Many fear this will increase drivers driving under the influence. To keep you safe and informed we’ve shared the impact cannabis has on driving.
Regardless of how you feel about the recent legalization of cannabis, we can’t ignore the fact that there are several concerns regarding the safety implications of cannabis use, especially when it comes to driving under the influence.
Driving impaired by cannabis is illegal
Driving under the influence of anything is detrimental and increases your chances of being involved in a collision. Drugs impair your ability to drive by affecting motor skills, attention, judgement, reaction time, balance and coordination.The penalties for driving impaired by cannabis
- an immediate licence suspension
- financial penalties
- possible vehicle impoundment
- possible criminal record
- possible jail time
What happens when you drive under the influence of cannabis?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive chemical in cannabis. According to the Canada Safety Council, drivers under the influence of cannabis are very aware of their impairment and try to drive more cautiously by slowing down and avoiding risks. That being said, those under the influence of THC have a decreased ability to make quick decisions about maneuvers behind the wheel, have difficulty staying in the lane and have trouble maintaining a constant following distance.
Drugs affect your ability to react and increase the chance of a being involved in a collision. Please ensure you inform everyone about the dangers of driving under the influence of cannabis.
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