A new two-part study by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) and BCAA reveals that cannabis edibles can significantly impair driving performance—and for longer than many realize.
Simulator research from the University of Saskatchewan found that reaction time, lane discipline, and speed control are all affected. The risk of collisions peaks at 58 percent four hours after consuming an edible, with nearly one-third of participants in simulated crashes at just 1.5 hours. By 2.5 hours, collision risk rose to 44 percent.
The study also found that 11 percent of adults in BC admit to driving while high, above the national average of 8 percent. Many rank driving after cannabis use as a lower safety risk compared to texting, alcohol, or speeding in residential areas.
BCAA Director Shawn Pettipas said, “With edibles increasing in popularity and the holidays approaching, we want everyone to enjoy themselves and get home safely. Know the effects and plan ahead.”
To promote road safety, BCAA will launch a province-wide campaign in mid-December, aligned with a national CAA initiative. Ads show everyday tasks, like tying shoes or answering the door, becoming unexpectedly difficult after consuming edibles. The campaign reinforces the message: “If You Can’t Drive Your Body, You Can’t Drive Your Car.”
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