Impaired driving remains a serious concern on Canadian roads, and a growing body of research shows that cannabis—especially in edible form—plays a bigger role than many people realize. A new study supported by CAA offers important insight into how edibles affect young drivers, and the findings highlight why education and awareness are more crucial than ever.
Many young people believe cannabis makes them calmer, more focused, or safer behind the wheel. But as experts frequently remind us, impaired is impaired—and edibles can significantly affect driving ability. According to the University of Saskatchewan study, supported by CAA, the effects of THC on driving are measurable even when users think they “feel fine.”
The research examined drivers aged 19 to 30 who consumed 10 mg of THC in a controlled environment before getting behind a driving simulator. Thanks to CAA’s involvement, the study was able to track the participants’ behavior at several intervals: 90 minutes, 2.5 hours, 4 hours, and 6 hours after ingestion. The results were consistent and concerning. At just 90 minutes post-consumption, drivers showed impaired speed control, poor lane discipline, slower reaction times, and an increased likelihood of collision. Nearly one-third of participants actually crashed in the simulator.
Unlike inhaled THC, which produces effects quickly, edibles can take much longer to kick in. Young drivers may take one dose, feel nothing, take more, and then experience the peak effects while driving. This delayed onset is exactly why CAA continues to push for clearer education around safe consumption.
Police data further emphasize the issue. Toronto police report that drugs account for roughly 10% of impaired driving arrests—a number that has held steady for several years. And according to a recent CAA study in Ontario, 20% of drivers admitted to consuming cannabis before getting behind the wheel. Even more concerning is the rise of “polyuse,” when people combine cannabis with alcohol or other drugs. CAA warns that this dramatically increases impairment and crash risk.
With the holiday season approaching, the message from experts and CAA is simple: always plan ahead and drive sober. Whether your plans involve alcohol, cannabis, or edibles, make sure you have a safe ride. As one of the leading organizations advocating for road safety, CAA stresses that understanding how edibles work—and how long their effects last—is essential for preventing crashes and saving lives.
By continuing to share research insights and promote responsible choices, CAA hopes to reduce impaired driving and ensure safer roads for everyone.