Impaired Driving
Overall, Albertans understand the dangers of impaired driving. The number of people killed in collisions involving legally impaired drivers (alcohol and/or drugs) has declined significantly over the years. Despite this progress, impaired driving remains a serious concern. In Alberta, one in 13 drivers involved in a fatal collision is legally impaired.
Quick Facts:
- The majority of impaired driving collisions happen on weekends between 7:00 p.m. and 10:59 p.m.
- Research shows cannabis use can reduce many cognitive and motor skills required to drive safely, such as tracking, reaction time, visual function, concentration, short-term memory, and divided attention. Combining cannabis with alcohol further intensifies the effects on driving skills, even if the doses of either substance are low
- The effects of consuming cannabis edibles take longer to kick in and last much longer than inhaling the drug. It may take up to two hours to feel effects, which could last for several hours
- A recent Canadian study of alcohol and drug use among drivers found that drug use in nighttime drivers exceeded that of alcohol use
The Lethbridge Police Service is committed to reducing the number of impaired drivers on our roads. All frontline officers receive training to identify and investigate impaired driving offences, whether alcohol- or drug-related.
The public also plays a critical role in keeping our roads safe. If you are intoxicated, save lives by planning a safe ride home. If you suspect someone is driving while impaired, report it to police. By working together, we can help prevent tragedies and make our roads safer for everyone.
