Drug-Impaired Driving Can Be Deadly

Updated:
August 28, 2019

Marijuana use significantly impairs one's driving ability by affecting judgement, motor coordination and reaction time. In fact, according to the most recent data from the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse, approximately 34 per cent of vehicle crash deaths can be linked to drug-impaired driving, which is nearly as many as those related to alcohol.

Marijuana's Impact on Driving

Drug-impaired driving occurs when an operator uses a motor vehicle while under the influence of illegal, prescription or over-the-counter drugs. Of these, marijuana is one of the most common, with studies suggesting that each year, approximately 632,600 Canadian drivers operate a vehicle two hours after smoking marijuana.

This is dangerous, as marijuana can impact one's driving ability in the following ways:

  • ‍Reduces a driver's ability to stay in the centre lane
  • Impacts a driver's ability to judge safe following distances
  • Impairs a driver's ability to make quick decisions regarding passing manoeuvres
  • Makes it difficult for drivers to concentrate on the road
  • Decreases a driver's ability to accurately judge his or her driving speed

If caught operating a vehicle under the influence of marijuana, drivers could face severe penalties. For a first offence, drivers will have to pay a fine of no less than $1,000 and refrain from driving for 12 months. Jail time is also a potential punishment, especially for repeat offenders.

FAQs

What is financial advising?

Financial advising involves providing guidance and advice to individuals, families, or businesses to help them make informed decisions about their financial matters. This can include various aspects such as investment planning, retirement planning, tax planning, estate planning, and more. Financial advisors analyze their clients' financial situations, goals, and risk tolerance to create customized strategies that align with their objectives.

Why is financial planning important?

Financial planning is crucial for several reasons:

Goal Achievement: It helps individuals set and achieve financial goals, whether they are short-term, such as buying a home, or long-term, like funding a comfortable retirement.

Risk Management: Financial planning addresses risks by considering insurance, emergency funds, and other protective measures.

Budgeting and Saving: It promotes responsible money management through budgeting and saving, fostering financial stability.

Wealth Building: Effective financial planning can lead to wealth accumulation and the creation of a secure financial future.

Can financial advisors help with debt?

Yes, financial advisors can help with debt management. They can assess your overall financial situation, create a budget, and develop strategies to pay down debt efficiently. They may also negotiate with creditors on your behalf, provide debt consolidation recommendations, and offer guidance on prioritizing and managing debt repayment.

What exactly does a financial advisor do?

The specific responsibilities of a financial advisor can vary, but generally, they:

  1. Conduct a thorough analysis of a client's financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
  2. Develop personalized financial plans based on the client's goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.
  3. Provide investment advice and portfolio management services.
  4. Offer guidance on retirement planning, estate planning, tax planning, and insurance.
  5. Monitor and adjust financial plans as needed based on changes in the client's life or market conditions.
  6. Educate clients on financial matters and empower them to make informed decisions.
What is the average fee for a financial advisor?

The fees charged by financial advisors can vary widely based on factors such as the advisor's experience, the services provided, and the region.

Common fee structures include:

Hourly Fees: Advisors charge an hourly rate for their services.
Flat or Fixed Fees: A set fee is charged for specific services or a comprehensive financial plan.
Asset-based Fees: Fees are a percentage of the assets under management (AUM).
Commission-based Fees: Advisors earn commissions on financial products they sell.
Combination of Fees: Advisors may use a combination of the above fee structures.
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It's important to discuss and clarify fee arrangements with a potential financial advisor before engaging in their services.