Driving while impaired by drugs carries harsh penalties in Saskatchewan, and more and more drivers are being caught. (650 CKOM file photo)

By CKOM News

Impaired Driving

Number of drivers suspended for drugs growing ‘higher and higher’ in Sask.: SGI

Apr 20, 2024 | 5:49 PM

April 20 – commonly referred to as 4/20 – has long been associated with cannabis culture in Canada and around the world.

But while many will be lighting pipes, sparking up joints and munching on edibles Saturday, SGI is warning users that more and more people in Saskatchewan are getting caught driving while impaired by drugs.

“Here in Saskatchewan, the number of drug-related suspensions is significantly higher than it was three years ago,” SGI explained in a statement.

“Canadian police have roadside oral fluid testing devices they can administer to any driver suspected of driving under the influence of drugs.”

Cannabis outpaced alcohol at a police checkstop in Saskatoon last October. Two months later, police suspended 22 licences after a two-day traffic blitz stopped 445 vehicles in east-central Saskatchewan.

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Getting caught driving while high comes with stiff penalties in the province, SGI noted.

“Failing the test means a driver will see their licence suspended for at least three days (60 days for a Novice, a Learner and anyone age 21 and under), along with a three-day vehicle impoundment and four demerits,” the Crown insurer said. “The driver is also required to take a two-day ‘Driving Without Impairment’ class.”

SGI noted there are many easy and affordable options to avoid driving while impaired, including taxis and rideshares. Calling a sober friend or family member is also an option.

“Either option is better than getting your licence suspended and your vehicle impounded for driving impaired, to put it bluntly,” SGI said.

“Talk to your friends and make the joint decision that none of you will drive impaired tomorrow or any other day of the year.”

The Saskatchewan RCMP also recently began screening all drivers pulled over in Saskatchewan for alcohol, following a similar move by police in Regina.