Study of Ontario drivers highlights the need for public education and information around marijuana legalization
New survey underscores the importance of public education to prevent marijuana-impaired driving.
THORNHILL, ON, Dec. 7, 2017 /CNW/ - As both the Ontario and federal governments work towards the implementation of the legalization of cannabis, CAA South Central Ontario (SCO) commissioned a study, conducted by Ipsos, to better understand public perception around the use of marijuana and its influence on driving.
The survey asked 1,000 Ontario drivers about the development of an education strategy and how governments, and law enforcement agencies should go about implementing impaired driving policies.
When asked, 74 per cent of respondents said that public education on cannabis-impaired driving laws, and penalties is important to them.
The findings, featured in the report released today by CAA South Central Ontario, found that a majority of Ontario drivers believe there will be an increase in the frequency of marijuana-impaired driving, and many think that there may be more collisions due to cannabis use once legalized than is currently the case due to alcohol or distracted driving.
"The survey showed that for many, road safety is front of mind when it comes to the pending legalization of marijuana," said Teresa Di Felice, director of government and community relations at CAA SCO.
The results of the survey also show that there is strong support among Ontario drivers to put stricter fines/penalties in place for marijuana-impaired driving.
"As a road safety advocate CAA is focused on working with government officials to provide input on cannabis-legislation, and to create various public relations education campaigns based on research and legislation," added Di Felice.
Additionally, many of the people that took part in the survey said that top five ideas to prevent marijuana-impaired driving are;
- Public awareness campaigns
- Stricter/Stronger penalties
- Large fines
- Education of health risks
- Suspension/loss of license
Attached is an infographic highlighting some of the survey's major findings.
Anyone interested in obtaining a copy of the report can do so by emailing your request to [email protected]
About CAA South Central Ontario
As a leader and advocate for road safety and mobility, CAA South Central Ontario is a not-for-profit auto club which represents the interests of 2 million members. For over a century, CAA has collaborated with communities, police services and government to help keep drivers and their families safe while travelling on our roads.
SOURCE CAA South Central Ontario
For further information: Nadia Matos, PR Specialist, P: (905) 771-3058, C: (416) 523-0663, E: [email protected]; Kaitlynn Furse, PR Manager, P: (905) 771-3194, C: (647) 227-7559, E: [email protected]
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