In Canada, the discussion about road safety is often focused on drugs such as cannabis. But studies show: Alcohol is still the bigger threat for accidents and fatalities on the roads. While the legalization of cannabis causes heated debates, the danger of drinking and driving is often underestimated.
In this article we analyze:
- How alcohol and cannabis affect driving ability
- Current statistics on accidents under the influence of both substances
- Why alcohol is more dangerous – despite public perception
- Measures to improve road safety
Drinking and driving – an underestimated danger
How alcohol impairs driving ability
Alcohol slows reaction times, impairs judgment and increases the willingness to take risks. The likelihood of an accident increases significantly from as little as 0.5 per mille. Compared to cannabis, alcohol is particularly treacherous because many people do not correctly assess their impairment themselves.
Statistics on alcohol-related accidents in Canada
According to Transport Canada, about 30% of all fatal traffic accidents are caused by alcohol consumption.
In comparison, cannabis plays a role in only 5-10% of accidents resulting in death.
Alcohol is also a bigger problem with repeated offenses: many drunk drivers commit multiple offenses.
Cannabis in road traffic – a lower risk?
How cannabis influences driving behavior
Cannabis can impair concentration and slightly increase reaction time. However, studies show that cannabis users often drive more cautiously, while alcohol users are more prone to risky behavior.
Why cannabis is less deadly than alcohol
Most cannabis accidents result in minor injuries, while alcohol often causes serious or fatal collisions.
Cannabis remains detectable in the blood for longer, even after the acute effect has worn off. Alcohol, on the other hand, has a direct and strongly impairing effect.
Why is alcohol often trivialized?
Despite the clear data, drink-driving is less discussed in the public debate than cannabis. The reasons for this are:
Social acceptance: Alcohol is culturally deeply rooted, while cannabis is still stigmatized.
Misjudging the danger: Many people believe they can “still drive” even though they are already over the limit.
Political priorities: Regulations for cannabis are stricter, while alcohol controls are often lax.
What can be done to make the roads safer?
Stronger controls: More police checks and alcohol tests, especially at weekends.
Better education: Campaigns that provide information about the specific risks of alcohol compared to cannabis.
Technical solutions: Mandatory alcohol immobilizers for repeat offenders.
Conclusion: alcohol remains the bigger problem
While cannabis is often the focus of the road safety debate, the statistics show that alcohol is the greater danger. In order to reduce the number of accidents, politicians and society must take the issue more seriously.
Source: https://internationalcbc.com/canada-alcohol-a-greater-threat-to-road-safety-than-cannabis/