Driving impaired can result in serious and fatal car accidents
It’s well-known that impaired driving is dangerous. Yet every year in the Greater Toronto Area, drivers get behind the wheel despite being impaired. Too often, they cause car accidents that leave people seriously injured. But a new survey suggests the problem of cannabis-impaired driving is getting worse.
In the survey conducted by CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO), 38 percent of cannabis-impaired drivers in Ontario said they consumed edibles before driving. That’s a 12 percent increase from the year before. It’s also more than double the rate in 2019.
“The data shows us that while drivers primarily engage in cannabis-impaired driving after smoking a joint, the prevalence of driving under the influence of edibles is on the upswing, and that poses a greater risk to road safety,” says Michael Stewart, community relations consultant at CAA SCO.
The effects of edibles on driving skills
What makes driving after consuming edibles dangerous? Concerns about edibles and driving include:
- Delayed onset – It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours or more for the full effects of an edible to kick in. Because of this, people may underestimate the strength of the edible and consume more.
- Decreased cognitive function – The active compounds in cannabis, such as THC, can slow reaction time, impair coordination, reduce attention span, and impact decision-making and judgment.
- Altered perception of time and speed – This can make it difficult for drivers to accurately gauge how fast they are driving or the distance between vehicles.
- Impaired motor skills – This can make routine driving tasks such as steering, braking, and accelerating more challenging and less precise.
- Drowsiness and fatigue – Some people experience drowsiness and fatigue after consuming cannabis edibles, which can increase the risk of falling asleep at the wheel or having reduced alertness.
There are also many factors that play a role in the effects of edibles. These include the individual, the dose, and the type of edible consumed.
If you were hit by an impaired driver, we can protect your rights
The victims of car accidents caused by impaired driving can pay a heavy price. They may suffer traumatic brain injuries (TBI), neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, or injuries to internal organs.
If you were injured in a crash caused by an impaired driver, you deserve justice and accountability. But the legal process can be complicated.
That’s why you need an experienced Toronto car accident lawyer who can fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. At Smitiuch Injury Law, we have handled many cases involving impaired drivers. We understand the challenges that you can face when dealing with the aftermath of a serious crash. And we know how to build a strong case that gets results.
If you were injured in Toronto, Brantford, or Simcoe, learn more about how we can help. One of our lawyers can review your case and answer any questions you have. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
