MYTHS:
DRIVING WHILE HIGH
Impaired driving is the leading criminal cause of death in Canada. It’s time to weed out misconceptions about driving under the influence of cannabis.
Driving high is not as dangerous as drinking and driving.
Your risk of being involved in a motor vehicle crash can double if you’re under the influence of cannabis.
According to CAA-funded research conducted by McGill University, cannabis slows your reaction time and reduces your ability to stay in a lane or avoid obstacles. It also affects your ability to make accurate decisions.
Case in point: That little voice in your head that says you’re a better driver after one joint? You’re not.
Cannabis is legal, so driving while high is just a slap on the wrist, right?
Wrong. Impaired driving is a serious criminal offence because it threatens your safety and the safety of anyone else on the road. Your first offence comes with hefty fines, a suspended license, an impounded vehicle and possible jail time. And penalties get much steeper with subsequent infractions.
I’m fine if I wait an hour or two before driving.
The McGill research found that young drivers were at risk of a collision even five hours after inhaling cannabis. Your reaction to cannabis varies each time you consume it.
Edibles take longer to kick in and studies suggest they can remain in your system for up to 12 hours. There’s no clear-cut answer on how long to wait—take a cab, rideshare or opt for a designated driver.
