How to Assess Marijuana-impaired Drivers
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There are many factors that could contribute to a car accident occurring on Ottawa roads. One of those is impaired drivers. While drunk drivers may be the first thing that comes to mind when you hear that phrase, there are other substances, the use of which, could lead to the same end result. Local police are particularly concerned about how safe the roads will be if marijuana is legalized for recreational use, throughout Canada. Its legalization could come as soon as 2017.
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According to the chief executive officer of MADD Canada, while alcohol may be the thing most people assume is found in those who die in car accidents, even before the legalization of marijuana, the most recent national data indicated drugs are actually found 25 per cent more often. More specifically, as compared to alcohol related car accident deaths in the province, there were twice as many drug deaths. Marijuana is the most popular drug.
One issue for law enforcement currently, is how to confirm whether a driver who has been stopped is under the influence of a drug. Breath and blood tests used in suspected drunk driving situations are not effective. According to MADD Canada’s CEO, police will have tools, such as roadside saliva tester, before the drug is made legal, to test for its use.
Exactly how everything will work out remains to be seen. In the meantime, anyone who is injured in a motor vehicle accident, that is the result of negligence of another driver, should be aware that he or she may be able to take legal action against that party. A personal injury lawyer can be of assistance in such matters.
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