Cannabis edibles and driving can be a dangerous mix, Winnipeg police warn
Impaired driving 'just not worth the risk,' justice minister says as police promote awareness campaign
If you use cannabis edibles, Winnipeg police have a simple message for you — don't drive high.
An impaired-driving enforcement campaign currently underway aims to both educate and promote safe driving practices for those who use cannabis.
Cannabis-impaired driving is the second-highest contributor to impaired driving offences in Manitoba after alcohol, according to Patrol Sgt. Stephane Fontaine, who is the impaired driving countermeasures co-ordinator with Winnipeg Police Service.
Edibles are a particular concern because of how long their effects can last, he said. Fontaine's advice when taking edibles is to avoid driving for at least 12 hours.
"The effects take longer to kick in and tend to last a lot longer when you compare it to the effects of smoking cannabis," he said at a Tuesday morning news conference.
The police service's awareness campaign, in partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance, will include messaging on digital billboards, social media and digital ads aimed at both recreational and medicinal users.
Police have discretion on whether or not to conduct drug screening using an approved testing device when a driver is pulled over, Fontaine said.
A driver who tests positive for cannabis faces an immediate driver's licence suspension, starting at a minimum of three days.
"Impaired driving can only lead to death, injury and heartbreak," Justice Minister Matt Wiebe said at Tuesday's news conference.
"It's just not worth the risk."
Last year, nearly one in three fatal motor vehicle collisions involved impaired driving, according to Manitoba Public Insurance vice-president Maria Campos.
"Impaired driving is preventable," said Fontaine. "Let's make sure every Manitoban can get home safely."