When they hear the phrase “impaired driving”, most people immediately think of alcohol. However, with the increasing legalization of marijuana in many parts of the world, it’s crucial to acknowledge and address the dangers of driving under the influence of cannabis.
A recent study revealed that driving under the influence of marijuana may be even more dangerous than driving drunk. In Canada alone, the rate of marijuana-related crashes rose by 475% between 2020 and 2021 – drunk driving crashes during that same period only rose by 9.4%.
In this blog, we’ll explore why driving high can be more dangerous than driving drunk and offer advice for companies looking to ensure workplace safety and employee accountability.
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Does Your Driver Safety Policy Have These 8 Critical Components?
The Dangers of Stoned Driving
Decreased Reaction Times and Coordination
Marijuana impairs a driver’s ability to concentrate, make decisions and coordinate movements. THC, the drug’s psychoactive component, can slow down reaction times, making it harder to respond to sudden changes in traffic conditions. Unsurprisingly, this is a dangerous (and potentially deadly) combination when operating a motor vehicle.
Greater Risk of Crashes
Other than alcohol, marijuana is the number-one substance found in impaired drivers’ blood tests. Recent studies indicate that drivers with THC in their blood were twice as likely to cause a deadly crash or be killed in one than drivers who hadn’t used drugs or alcohol.
In states where marijuana is legal, there has been a noticeable uptick in cannabis-related car crashes. In Colorado, following legalization, the number of drivers who tested positive for marijuana use jumped 145% – and by 2016, nearly 20% of fatal crashes were caused by drivers under the influence of marijuana.
Increased Prevalence
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States. Though legalization plays a big role, a shifting cultural attitude is also responsible for the rise of marijuana usage. Because marijuana is often viewed as natural and safe, many don’t consider marijuana-impaired driving to be as dangerous as drunk driving or driving while texting. In a AAA Foundation survey, over 13% of respondents thought that driving within an hour of using marijuana was only “slightly dangerous” or “not dangerous at all.” By contrast, when asked to gauge the danger of drunk driving, only 1.2% of respondents shared the same sentiment.
Lack of Reliable Testing Methods
Unlike alcohol, which can be measured relatively easily with a breathalyzer, detecting the amount of marijuana in someone’s system is more complex. There is currently no standardized test for cannabis impairment that is as reliable as a breathalyzer for alcohol. This poses a significant challenge for law enforcement officers trying to determine if a driver is under the influence of marijuana, making it harder to enforce impaired driving laws.
Advice for Safety Professionals and Fleet Managers
It doesn’t matter if marijuana is legal where you live – proactive guidelines and an action plan are critical for any organization that employs drivers. Here are a few ways you can keep your drivers, your bottom line and your brand’s reputation safe.
Establish Clear Drug Policies
Outline a clear, comprehensive drug policy that includes specific guidelines for the use of marijuana both on and off the job. Will your organization take a zero-tolerance approach? Will you implement random drug testing? What happens if an employee tests positive or is suspected of using marijuana while on the clock? Make sure all these details are addressed so that your employees have clear expectations.
Increase Education and Awareness
Employers should also consider providing education and training on the dangers of driving under the influence of marijuana. This can include workshops, seminars or informational materials to ensure that employees are well-informed about the risks.
Support Employee Well-Being
Employers should encourage a culture of well-being and offer resources for employees struggling with substance abuse. Providing access to counseling or rehabilitation programs can be crucial in helping employees overcome addiction.
Invest in Ongoing Driver Activity Monitoring
Ultimately, if you’re not monitoring your drivers’ activity, unsafe driving behavior can – and will – slip through the cracks. A continuous driver activity monitoring solution can capture a driver’s risk profile in near-real time, allowing their employers to identify unsafe patterns, intervene early and prevent crashes.
Conclusion
Driving under the influence of marijuana is a serious concern that demands everyone’s attention. With the increasing prevalence of cannabis use, it’s imperative to understand the risks associated with impaired driving. By implementing clear policies, educating employees and promoting responsible alternatives, companies can play a vital role in keeping our roads safe and preventing crashes caused by impaired driving.
Ready to strengthen your existing driver safety policy? Here are eight things, including a drug and alcohol clause, that you need to include.
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