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The Impacts of Cannabis Legalization on Driving and Insurance

*This list provided by ICBC references licensed driving schools in Richmond British Columbia: https://partners.icbc.com/driver-training/driver-training-resources/glp-schools *

Drive Treck Driving Academy: A GLP Program

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In 2018, Canada became the second country to fully legalize marijuana, a change with far-reaching implications spanning from tourism to the healthcare industry. The legalization is expected to significantly impact driving and insurance, although the exact outcomes remain uncertain.

Anticipated Effects of Marijuana Legalization:

  1. Impact on Insurance Rates: It’s unclear how marijuana legalization will affect car insurance rates. However, states in the U.S. where marijuana has been legalized saw an increase in car accidents. For example, Colorado experienced a fifty percent rise in premiums post-legalization. Insurance companies will likely need time to adjust their policies to account for the new risks associated with marijuana use while driving.
  2. Enforcement of Impaired Driving Laws: One of the challenges of marijuana legalization is detecting impaired drivers. Standard roadside tests may not definitively prove intoxication, leading to higher insurance premiums and legal consequences for drivers. Despite advances in technology, such as saliva tests and potential breathalyzers for cannabis, challenges remain in accurately determining impairment.
  3. Driving Under Medicinal Use: While laws regarding medical marijuana and driving are unclear, driving under the influence remains illegal, even with a medical marijuana card. It’s safest to avoid driving after consuming cannabis for medicinal purposes.
  4. Waiting Period After Cannabis Consumption: Due to variations in individual tolerance levels, it’s advisable not to drive on the same day as using cannabis. Waiting ensures that drivers are not under the influence while behind the wheel.

Importance of Avoiding Driving Under the Influence:

Driving under the influence of cannabis carries severe consequences, including DUI charges, immediate license suspension, increased insurance rates, and the risk of harming oneself and others. Contrary to some beliefs, marijuana does not make drivers more cautious; instead, it impairs reflexes and the ability to adjust to changing driving conditions.

Impact on Prospective Cannabis Car Insurance Rates:

The legalization of cannabis will lead to significant changes in the auto insurance market. Insurance companies lack sufficient data to accurately assess the risks associated with marijuana use and driving, prompting them to offer higher rates initially. As more data becomes available, insurance rates are expected to stabilize, potentially even decreasing from their initial spike.

Insurance companies will handle marijuana legalization differently, resulting in varying rates among providers. Thus, it’s crucial for drivers to compare insurance rates and avoid driving under the influence to avoid penalties and ensure safety on the road.

In conclusion, with the legalization of marijuana, both drivers and insurance providers will need to adapt to the new landscape. Staying informed about the laws and taking steps to drive responsibly can help mitigate risks and ensure road safety for all.

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