In mid-January 2024, in partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance and MADD Canada, the Winnipeg Police Service launched a targeted enforcement project to identify motorists operating vehicles under the influence of cannabis and other drugs.
The enforcement project, launched in conjunction with a multimedia campaign, included the release of a video paired with social media messaging aimed at educating the public on the dangers of driving under the influence of cannabis and other drugs.
Of 243 traffic stops conducted throughout the project term, Traffic Division officers conducted 148 drug screening tests. Of those, 64 or 43% of drivers tested positive. Positive tests with the use of approved screening equipment reveal the recent consumption of cannabis.
During the enforcement project, 36 Provincial Offence Act notices were issued, including improper storage of cannabis in a vehicle, and consuming cannabis in a vehicle (passenger).
The Winnipeg Police Service reminds the public that law enforcement has the tools and training required to continue detecting impaired drivers regardless of the impaired substance.
The consequences of driving while impaired by drugs are the same as alcohol impairment.
Don’t Drive High. It’s dangerous, detectable, and definitely illegal. #DontDriveHigh
https://www.winnipeg.ca/news/2024-02-01-drug-impaired-driving-enforcement-project-underway