MEDIA RELEASE: CAA launches cannabis education campaign, geared towards a younger demographic

This holiday season will be the first time Ontarians will consume cannabis legally. Many of those experimenting will be young adults, who according to our research, are more likely to mix alcohol and cannabis together.

In response to the new laws and research, CAA has launched a cannabis education campaign called #DontDriveHigh. 

The campaign is geared towards novice drivers to remind them that even though cannabis is legal, it’s not harmless, especially in situations where reaction time, motor skills and judgment are critical. Driving high is driving impaired.

“Just because you think you may be able to drive while high, doesn’t mean you should,” said Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice president, government relations, CAA SCO. “It’s important to remember that if you are going to consume alcohol or cannabis, find an alternative to driving so you can arrive where you’re going safely.”

CAA’s research shows that there is a gap in awareness of the effects of using cannabis, specifically, in young men. Men aged 25 to 34 are the most likely to drive under the influence of cannabis. Many are novice drivers who live in busy, urban areas.

“Our research shows that many Ontario drivers believe that there is a strong need for public education around cannabis legislation,” said Teresa Di Felice. “Our campaign aims to educate young drivers with fun yet thought-provoking videos.” 

CAA SCO worked with The Turn Lab, to create a series of videos demonstrating the impact cannabis has on concentration, coordination, reaction time, and decision making.

CAA believes that education is one of the most critical elements to help Ontarians understand the issues surrounding cannabis legislations and safety.

If you are writing about cannabis and road safety – we can help. Teresa Di Felice is the Assistant Vice President of Government & Community Relations at CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO), Canada's largest CAA Club. She has been with CAA since 2005.

She is responsible for the overall direction and execution of the organization’s advocacy strategies and programs, representing and raising awareness on relevant issues to CAA’s over 2 million Members and with policymakers in Ontario.