Driving high? New research shows many Ontarians get behind the wheel too soon after consuming cannabis

Ottawa, October 10, 2019 – As we approach the first anniversary of the legalization of cannabis and prepare for the introduction of legal edibles, CAA South Central Ontario (CAASCO) is releasing new data that suggests that the dangers of cannabis-impaired driving are misunderstood by many.

It shows that approximately 1.2 million Ontario drivers have, at some point, driven high after consuming cannabis. Seventy-two per cent report waiting three hours or less to get behind the wheel, with 27 per cent feeling very or somewhat high when they did.

The research also shows that over half of Ontario drivers who use cannabis are “poly-users,” meaning they typically pair cannabis with another substance. Alcohol is by far the most common substance paired with cannabis.

Cannabis-infused edibles are another option that may further complicate matters when it comes to drug-impaired driving. Twelve per cent of non-users indicated they were very or somewhat likely to try edible cannabis products after it becomes legal. CAA’s focus is to ensure that road safety, public education and enforcement remain at the forefront of the management of cannabis legalization. The statistically representative study, commissioned by CAA and conducted by Dig Insights in late June 2019, surveyed 1,510 Ontarian between the ages of 19 and 70 who have a valid driver’s license.

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ABOUT CAA NORTH & EAST ONTARIO
CAA North & East Ontario (CAA NEO) provides more than 300,000 members in the region with emergency roadside service, complete automotive and travel services, member savings, and comprehensive insurance services. CAA NEO is part of a larger federation of eight CAA Clubs across Canada committed to providing exceptional service to more than six million members coast-to-coast, as well as advocating on issues of concern including road safety, the environment, mobility, infrastructure and consumer protection. To join, visit CAANEO.ca.

For more information, please contact:
Mandy Chepeka
Communications Manager
CAA North & East Ontario
Phone: 613 733 9070 X 6415
Mobile: 613 797 1253
E-mail: mchepeka@caaneo.on.ca