Ontario Drivers Report Rising Confidence While Driving High

As the holiday season approaches, a recent survey reveals that many drivers in Ontario are increasingly confident in their ability to drive after consuming cannabis edibles. According to a study conducted by CAA South Central Ontario, more than one-third of cannabis-impaired drivers admitted to feeling high while behind the wheel. This trend raises significant safety concerns, especially as the number of drivers acknowledging this behavior remains unchanged from last year.

The survey, which included responses from 1,510 Ontario drivers, found that 20 percent admitted to driving under the influence of cannabis in the past year. Alarmingly, 78 percent of these drivers expressed confidence in their driving abilities while impaired, marking a 13 percent increase since 2021. The survey highlights a troubling mindset where many individuals rely on personal judgment to gauge their impairment, often overlooking critical signs such as drowsiness or slowed reaction times.

Michael Stewart, a community relations consultant for CAA South Central Ontario, emphasized the dangers of this misplaced confidence. “We must recognize that getting behind the wheel is not just a personal choice; it’s a responsibility that affects the safety of everyone on our roads,” he stated. The survey also revealed that a significant portion of young adults, particularly those aged 19 to 30, feel unsafe to drive within 90 minutes of consuming cannabis edibles.

The study, conducted in partnership with the University of Saskatchewan, indicates that critical driving skills, including reaction time and lane discipline, are notably impaired after cannabis consumption. The peak impairment occurs approximately 90 minutes after consumption, when many drivers may not recognize their diminished capabilities.

While most young users are aware of the risks, only 4 percent felt safe to drive after consuming edibles. CAA’s findings suggest that effects may not be immediately apparent, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. The organization noted that many individuals mistakenly believe that driving under the influence of cannabis is safer than driving under the influence of alcohol, a belief that is unsupported by research.

MADD Canada has pointed out that studies show significant increases in variability in lane position and reaction times among drivers who have consumed cannabis. According to their research, cannabis impairs drivers’ ability to respond to unexpected situations, such as a pedestrian crossing the road.

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Sgt. Kerry Schmidt confirmed that the police do not maintain separate statistics for alcohol and cannabis impairment. He stressed that the same legal standards apply, stating, “Impaired is impaired, whether it’s drugs or alcohol.” The OPP employs specially trained officers known as drug recognition experts (DRE) to identify drivers impaired by substances other than or in addition to alcohol.

The OPP has reported a 10 percent increase in impaired driving incidents where cannabis was suspected. As part of their Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) program, the OPP plans to enhance roadside checks to combat impaired driving. From January 1 to October 31 of this year, the OPP has laid approximately 10,080 impaired charges, reflecting a 4 percent increase from the previous year.

Research indicates that cannabis impairment can be almost immediate, lasting up to six hours or longer depending on factors such as THC levels and consumption methods. The province warns that the variability in individual responses makes it difficult to determine a safe waiting period before driving. Sgt. Schmidt stated, “We’re not going to say there’s any amount that’s acceptable,” underscoring that even small amounts can impair driving abilities.

Ontario maintains a zero-tolerance policy for novice and young drivers found with cannabis in their system. This policy applies to individuals aged 21 and under, as well as those holding G1, G2, M1, or M2 licenses.

The CAA continues to advocate for safer road practices, urging drivers to seek alternative transportation after consuming any impairing substances, including cannabis and alcohol. “While we’re all aware that alcohol-impaired driving can be dangerous, we should also take the same attitude toward cannabis-impaired driving,” Stewart concluded. As the holiday season approaches, the message is clear: consuming cannabis responsibly is essential, but it must never be paired with driving.