Cannabis Impaired Driving: By The Numbers
Understanding Trends in Cannabis Impaired Driving-Related Incidents in Canada
In the ever-evolving landscape of road safety, one concern remains steadfast – driving under the influence of cannabis. Despite concerted efforts to raise awareness, recent research suggests that the prevalence of cannabis-impaired driving in Canada has not seen a significant increase. Let’s delve into the numbers and explore the potential consequences of this risky behavior.
Cannabis Use and Driving Statistics:
According to a Public Safety Canada study in January 2022 and the 2021 Canadian Cannabis Survey, approximately one in four cannabis users admit to operating a vehicle under the influence. This figure has remained consistent over the past few years, holding steady at 26%. Additionally, one in three Canadians (30%) reports being a passenger in a vehicle operated by a cannabis-impaired driver, mirroring the statistics from 2020 and 2017.
Factors Influencing Cannabis Impairment:
Cannabis affects individuals differently based on several factors, including the method of consumption, quantity consumed, recency and frequency of use, and THC levels. As there is no clear guidance on safe cannabis consumption levels before driving, the message is clear – don’t take a chance, and don’t drive high.
Impact of Cannabis and Other Drugs on Driving:
Driving requires alertness and focus, qualities impaired by substances like cannabis, cocaine, methamphetamine, opioids, and certain prescribed drugs. The impairments manifest in various ways, such as affecting motor skills, slowing reaction time, impairing memory and concentration, causing speed variations, and reducing the ability to make quick decisions.
Public Perception and Awareness:
Public opinion research indicates a growing awareness of the dangers of cannabis-impaired driving. An overwhelming majority of Canadians (86%) agree that cannabis impairs driving ability, and 82% believe it is unacceptable for people they know to drive high. Despite this awareness, disturbingly high numbers persist regarding driving under the influence among young Canadians.
Youthful Perspectives on Cannabis and Driving:
Recent polls reveal concerning attitudes among young Canadians aged 18 to 34. Shockingly, 1 in 5 admit to driving high or being a passenger in a vehicle with a high driver. Furthermore, 12% believe their driving is unaffected or even improved after consuming cannabis. This discrepancy is evident as 89% wouldn’t drive home after drinking alcohol, yet 66% would do so after consuming cannabis.
Legal Framework and Enforcement:
Amendments to the Criminal Code in 2018 set legal limits for THC concentration in blood, enabling authorities to charge individuals based on these limits. The legislation also grants police the authority to conduct drug tests, including oral fluid samples and standardized field sobriety tests. The enforcement of impaired driving charges varies across provinces, reflecting the ongoing challenges in prosecuting these offenses.
Regarding cannabis, there are three specified limits for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary chemical responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis:
- A low blood drug concentration of 2 nanograms (ng) but less than 5 ng of THC per milliliter (ml) of blood, classified as a less severe summary conviction offense.
- 5 ng or more of THC per milliliter of blood, considered a summary conviction offense of a more serious indictable nature.
- 5 ng/ml of THC combined with 50 mg/dl of alcohol.
The amendments in 2018 granted the police the authority to request drivers suspected of having a drug in their system to provide an oral fluid sample for analysis, utilizing approved drug screening equipment (ADSE). Additionally, officers can mandate drivers to undergo a Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST), participate in an evaluation of drug influence by a trained officer in the Drug Evaluation and Classification (DEC) Program (commonly known as a Drug Recognition Expert or DRE), and provide a blood sample to ascertain the type and concentration of drugs in their system.
Maritime Statistics on Cannabis-Impaired Driving Charges:
Let’s examine the data from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island (PEI) in 2020:
- In New Brunswick, a total of 95 charges were laid under relevant sections, with 69 laid by the RCMP. Additionally, there were 105 instances of administrative measures being taken.
- Nova Scotia reported 1,577 charges laid under the specified sections in 2020.
- PEI saw 316 charges laid under the relevant sections in 2020, with an additional 299 instances where administrative driving prohibitions were imposed, including alcohol-related cases.
The numbers surrounding cannabis-impaired driving in Canada provide a snapshot of the ongoing challenges in addressing this critical road safety issue. Despite consistent efforts to raise awareness, the statistics underscore the importance of continued education, enforcement, and collaboration to make our roads safer for everyone. The message is clear – don’t drive high, as the consequences can be severe and entirely preventable.
Sources:
- https://www.canada.ca/en/services/policing/police/community-safety-policing/impaired-driving/drug-impaired-driving.html
- https://www.caa.ca/driving-safely/cannabis-impaired-driving/cannabis-road-safety-laws/
- https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2022-12/CCSA-Cannabis-Use-Driving-Report-2022-en.pdf
- https://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/pblctns/2021-did-fad/index-en.aspx
- https://madd.ca/pages/impaired-driving/overview/cannabis-and-driving/
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