Canada’s DUI problem involves drugged as well as drunk driving

Drugged driving is a serious issue in Canada, as the latest research suggests.
August 10, 2018 Read time: 1 min

Drugged driving is a serious issue in Canada, as the latest research suggests. While drunk driving has, to an extent, been addressed the risks posed by drugged driving remain. With the legal restrictions on the use of cannabis looking to be eased in Canada, the problem of driving under the influence of the drug has yet to be fully tackled.

Young drivers in particular are thought to be at risk. Research by the Partnership for a Drug Free Canada suggests that almost twice as many teenaged drivers will get behind the wheel when under the influence of cannabis than when under the influence of alcohol.

More worryingly still, research suggests that as many as 34% of teen drivers think they perform better behind the wheel when under the influence of cannabis. The drug causes driver impairment in a different way to alcohol, affecting distance perception and attentiveness in particular, although the slowing of reaction times it causes is similar to that resulting from alcohol use.

Related Content

  • Key bridge opening in Brazil
    May 25, 2021
    A key bridge in Brazil is now open to drivers.
    Read More
  • Loan for major US tunnel project
    October 4, 2021
    A loan facility will help finance a major US tunnel project.
    Read More
  • Belgium starts drug testing of drivers
    May 15, 2012
    Belgian authorities are planning to tackle the growing problem of drivers operating vehicles while under the influence of drugs. Testing of a new system that uses saliva to establish whether drivers have drugs present in their system is now starting. Previous methods of testing for drugs using blood tests or psycho-motor skills will be replaced, should the tests on the new system prove successful.
    Read More
  • The hands-free debate is just one side of driver distraction
    August 13, 2019
    A debate about hands-free and hand-held phone use is welcome, but if we want to improve road safety and stop killing people it misses the point, explains Shaun Helman, TRL's chief scientist The Transport Committee’s report on driving and mobile phones is to be welcomed, for focusing attention on a pressing and growing road safety issue. As someone who provided evidence to the committee, I don’t need convincing that the use of a mobile device while controlling a vehicle is something that must be considered
    Read More

Highlighted Content