Law Blog

Is Drugged Driving the Same as Drunk Driving?

drugged driving newmarket

Forty percent of Canadians who were killed in vehicle crashes tested positive for drugs, according to the Canadian Federal Government. That is higher than those who tested positive for alcohol at 22%. Although there are differences between the effects of drugs and drinking on drivers, driving under the influence of either substance is considered a crime in Canada.

The Difference Between Drugged and Alcohol Impaired Driving

It took decades of research to establish a demonstrated clear dose-response relationship between alcohol and driving impairment, according to the Traffic Injury Research Foundation. The limit is based on the amount of alcohol that would affect anyone's ability to drive safely. This limit is used as the basis for Impaired Driving Charges and the main difference between drug and alcohol impaired drinking at this time.

 

When it comes to illegal and legal drugs, there is a lack of consensus regarding a limit or threshold that would mark the impairment of driving skills. That is because a clear dose- response relationship has yet to be established for the many types of impairing drugs. As a result, Drugged Driving Charges can be a little more difficult to prove or even defend.

The impairing effects of drugs vary over time, and the impact of different concentrations of a drug will vary based on many factors, including:

  • Age
  • Sex
  • Frequency of use
  • Metabolism and body fat
  • The presence of other impairing substances
Also, the effects of some drugs might diminish, while higher levels of other drugs might not increase impairment.

Cannabis and Impaired Driving

Cannabis can affect each person differently. Many factors must be considered, including:

  • The method of consumption
  • The quantity consumed
  • The variety of cannabis
  • THC levels

Because of the varying effects of these factors, drivers have not been provided with clear guidance on how much cannabis can be "safely" consumed before driving. It is also unclear how long a person should wait after consuming cannabis before it is safe to drive. If you are pulled over by the police, you should contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Richmond Hill to make sure your rights are protected.

Effects of Cannabis on Drivers

Cannabis affects your ability to drive as it interferes with the following abilities:

  • Motor skills
  • Reaction time
  • Short-term memory and concentration
  • Staying on course
  • Maintaining safe, consistent speed levels
  • Decision-making
  • Handling unexpected events

Therefore, it is advisable to avoid driving when you have recently consumed cannabis.

Other Drugs and Driving

Illicit drugs such as cocaine and prescribed drugs such as opioids, cold medications, and pain killers can also affect driving skills and reaction times. Over-the-counter medications may also impair your ability to drive, especially those that might cause drowsiness.

 

Alcohol and Driving

According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, even a single drink of alcohol can reduce your reaction time. Because accidents happen suddenly, any impairment can make it very difficult to avoid a collision. Alcohol can also cause:

  • Blurred or double vision
  • Impaired attention
  • Slowed reflexes

Because small amounts of cannabis can affect reaction time, driving with even a small amount in your system can increase your risk for accidents. Whether you have been drinking, using drugs, or even taken legal medications, driving impaired is never a good idea.

If you have been charged with drugged or drunk driving, call or text us 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 647-295-6499.

647-295-6499info@whatthelaw.com