Driving under the influence of cannabis is a growing concern in Canada, especially following the legalization of its use for recreational purposes, according to the Canada Safety Council.
The organization joined with the Insurance Brokers Association of Canada to use December’s National Safe Driving Week as an opportunity to highlight the associated risks.
“Driving under the influence of cannabis is a serious risk to road safety,” said Gareth Jones, President and CEO of Canada Safety Council.
“It impairs your ability to react and make sound decisions, and the consequences can be devastating. During National Safe Driving Week, we are urging all Canadians to understand that impairment, whether from alcohol or drugs, has no place behind the wheel.”
According to the Government of Canada, cannabis-impaired driving remains a leading contributor to road accidents. A report from Public Safety Canada in 2023 found that just over 23% of cannabis users nationwide admitted to driving within two hours of consumption.
The Traffic Injury Research Foundation further notes that, between 2018 and 2020, approximately half of the 4,976 injured drivers receiving care in 15 trauma centres had at least one impairing substance in their system. Cannabis was at the fore — tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, was detected in almost 20 per cent of drivers.
“Insurance brokers are partnering with the Canada Safety Council to raise awareness of the danger of ingesting cannabis in any form and then getting behind the wheel,” added Peter Braid, Chief Executive Officer, Insurance Brokers Association of Canada.
“Make sure you have a safe way home. It’s not worth the risk.”
