The Winnipeg Police Service, in collaboration with Manitoba Public Insurance, is conducting a Roadwatch drug-impaired driving enforcement initiative in Winnipeg. This operation focuses on drivers under the influence of cannabis and other substances. The project will run from January through March.
Although alcohol impairment continues to be the leading cause of impaired driving offences, cannabis impairment ranks as the second highest contributor. Statistics indicate that drug-impaired drivers continue to pose serious risks on our roadways. During last year’s Drug Impaired Driver enforcement project, which ran in early 2024, the following results were captured:
- 243 traffic stops
- 148 Oral Fluid Tests, which resulted in 64 (or, 43%) positive for cannabis
- 36 Provincial Offences Act notices were issued, including for unlawful storage of cannabis in a vehicle and consuming cannabis in a vehicle (passenger)
This behaviour has the potential to lead to tragic outcomes, compromising the safety of all users of our roadways. We have taken notice and are taking action.
Education and awareness campaign underway
Recognizing the need for education on cannabis edibles, this year’s campaign focuses on educating motorists of the potential dangers of edible cannabis products, including gummies, oils, and baked goods. According to the Liquor, Gaming & Cannabis Authority of Manitoba, the sale of cannabis edibles has nearly doubled since legalization in 2018.
While consuming cannabis isn't new, many are surprised by its varying effects on the body. Notably, ingested cannabis is processed much slower than inhaled cannabis. The full effects of ingested cannabis can peak up to four hours after consumption and may linger for up to 12 hours. In contrast, the peak effects of inhaled cannabis occur within 30 minutes. For motorists, the lesson is simple:
- Don’t Drive High: If you plan to consume edible cannabis products, driving should be a hard “no” for at least 12 hours.
This education and enforcement project is part of the WPS Traffic Division's commitment to Manitoba road safety by promoting responsible driving through enforcement and education. Our hope is that by delivering education to the public, these conversations begin to happen at home, meaning young drivers receive this message from the time they are learning to drive. While enforcement is necessary to keep our roads safe, prevention and education are major keys for long-term safety.
Traffic enforcement is a priority year-round
Building off of the momentum of our December Checkstop program, WPS would like to remind motorists that impaired driving isn’t just a concern over the holidays. Year round, we are all responsible to make the decision to drive safely. Impaired driving is always a safety priority as it poses serious risk to our community.
We all have a role to play in road safety. We thank our partners and all motorists who choose to avoid driving impaired and find a safe way home.
Funding for the enforcement and education initiative comes from MPI as well as from the provincial government, out of a federal fund allocated to help law enforcement agencies deal with enforcement issues resulting from the legalization of cannabis in 2018.