CAA Manitoba recently did a survey, and the results are shocking.
The survey shows that more people are using cannabis before getting behind the wheel. Data from the survey shows that 24 per cent of drivers admitted to consuming cannabis before driving. 10 per cent of Manitobans reported driving after using cannabis in the past few months. 63 per cent said they got behind the wheel within three hours of use.
"Yeah, so these numbers are all up from last year. It tells us a bit of a story," said Ewald Friesen, manager, government & community relations for CAA Manitoba. "It shows us the sense of false confidence some users have after consuming cannabis. It raises some important questions about the research and awareness that still needs to be done."
In another study, 50 drivers aged 19 to 30 were examined to assess how consuming cannabis influences collision risk. Only four per cent of participants felt safe getting behind the wheel 90 minutes after eating an edible cannabis product.
Friesen says there are many dangers to driving while under the influence of cannabis, including your reaction time. You won't be able to respond on the road as quickly as if you were sober.
"The other one that we talk about is lane discipline. Our study participants were not staying in their lane; they were leaving and weaving into other lanes. This does not bode well," continued Friesen. "The third one is speed control. Folks were either driving too quickly or too slowly as a result of cannabis impairment."
More than half of Manitobans are unaware of the penalties associated with driving under the influence of cannabis.
"It's worth noting that the consequences of driving high in the province of Manitoba are very real," added Friesen. "Many folks don't understand that the penalties for driving high are the same as alcohol impairment. Impaired is impaired."
Drivers may face enhanced roadside sanctions, including an administrative penalty of $700, vehicle impoundment, mandatory Ignition Interlock participation for one year, an impaired driver assessment and a movement of 10 levels down the Driver Safety Rating scale. Depending on the severity of convictions, impaired drivers may be charged further under the Criminal Code of Canada.
As the holiday season approaches, Friesen is cautioning everyone to have fun but be safe. Everyone deserves to get to their destination safely. Driving under the influence of cannabis and or alcohol is a big no-no.
"Cannabis consumption is legal in this country if you're 18, and that's great," ended Friesen. "If you choose to use cannabis, please appoint a designated driver. Take a taxi or rideshare. You can also stay overnight."
CAA Manitoba wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season.
