Weed Legalization In Canada Has Led To More Canadians Driving High and Injuries

Since weed has been legal in Canada as of 2018, more residents are getting high and choosing to drive while high.

According to a study coming out of the University of British Columbia, many are hurting themselves. 

The report shows that cannabis was found in the systems of twice as many injured Canadian drivers now that weed had become legal compared to when it was illegal.

“It’s concerning that we’re seeing such a dramatic increase,” Dr. Jeffrey Brubacher, an associate professor at UBC and the primary researcher of the study, wrote. “There are serious risks associated with driving after cannabis use. Our findings suggest more is needed to deter this dangerous behavior in light of legalization.”

Between 2013 and 2020, blood samples were taken from more than 4,300 drivers who were considered “moderately injured” and sought medical attention at one of four trauma centers in B.C. and were analyzed. 

Before the legalization of weed, 3.8 percent of drivers had blood-THC levels above the legal driving limit of two nanograms/ml. Post legalization that has spiked to 8.6 percent.

One interesting find was that the largest increase reported was among drivers over the age of 50, so no one can say it is the ‘kids these days who are to blame for the hike. 

“We hope that policymakers will use our findings to design public information campaigns and enforcement measures that encourage drivers, especially older drivers, to separate cannabis use from driving,” said Brubacher. “At the same time, it is important not to lose sight of alcohol-impaired driving, which is an extremely high risk, especially when combined with cannabis.”