National Safe Driving Week (December 1-7) is here, and Young Drivers of Canada will be joining the Canadian Safety council to promote safe driving habits.

As Canadians prepare for the legalization of marijuana – and a possible increase in cannabis use among Canadians – it’s important to understand the dangers of driving while under the influence of this substance.

The House of Commons has passed legislation that would legalize recreational use of cannabis in Canada. With this development, it’s critical that the general public understand the dangers of drug-impaired driving.

Several reports have cited side effects which can impact the safe operation of a vehicle:

• Slower reaction time. Marijuana reduces psychomotor skills preventing users from making a potentially life-saving decision in time.[1] In the event of an unforeseen development, like a pedestrian stepping out in front of a car, drivers are unable to react as well.
• Altered time perception. Marijuana can skew the perception of time. This can lead to a delayed reaction time, such as waiting too long at a traffic light or not waiting long enough, potentially causing a driver to go through a red light.[2]
• Acute psychosis. Large doses of marijuana can cause “acute psychosis, which includes hallucinations, delusions, and a loss of the sense of personal identity.”[3] Lower doses can cause anxiety, fear, distrust or panic. All of these effects considerably impair the safe operation of a vehicle.[4]
• Compounding effect. When mixed with alcohol or other drugs, the effects of marijuana are compounded, creating unexpected interactions, and can lead to harmful and potentially fatal collisions.[5]

As more research is conducted regarding the effects of marijuana, the safest option for drivers is to avoid it completely. There is no sense in putting yourself – and those around you – in danger. It’s just irresponsible. So, if you’re going to get high, don’t drive. Sit back and enjoy the ride from the safety of your couch.

[1] “Driving on Marijuana Will Leave You High and Dry,” Canadian Safety Council, published April 2017, https://canadasafetycouncil.org/safety-canada-online/article/driving-marijuana-will-leave-you-high-and-dry.

[2] Ibid.

[3] “What are marijuana effects,” National Institute on Drug Abuse, last modified August 2017, https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/what-are-marijuana-effects.

[4] Ibid.

[5] “Driving on Marijuana Will Leave You High and Dry,” Canadian Safety Council, published April 2017, https://canadasafetycouncil.org/safety-canada-online/article/driving-marijuana-will-leave-you-high-and-dry.