Impaired Driving
Drive Sober – Arrive Alive
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous and illegal.
Driving sober is a choice that saves lives and keeps our communities safe. Impaired driving is a serious risk that has far-reaching consequences, both legally and personally. When you’re behind the wheel, being fully alert and free of impairment is essential.
Let’s make responsible choices and help ensure everyone arrives home alive.
Why Drive Sober?
Think before you get behind the wheel. Impaired driving increases the risk of accidents, putting lives in danger.
Drugs and alcohol can impair your ability to focus, react quickly, and make safe choices, putting everyone at risk. Even small amounts of alcohol, cannabis or other drugs affect reaction times and decision-making. Staying sober behind the wheel ensures your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Tips for Sober Driving
- Plan Ahead: If you’re going out, make plans for a safe ride home.
- Designate a Driver: Travel with someone who can stay sober to get everyone home safely.
- Use Safe Transportation Options: Cabs, and public transit are reliable alternatives.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Enjoy gatherings without alcohol or cannabis—mocktails and other non-alcoholic beverages are a great alternative.
Understanding Impaired Driving Laws in the NWT
Impaired driving means operating a vehicle (including cars, trucks, vessels, snowmobiles, and off-road vehicles) while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both, compromising your ability to drive safely. Here’s what to know:
- Territorial zero tolerance: In the NWT, novice drivers, drivers under 22, and certain commercial drivers must have no drugs or alcohol in their system. Any presence results in a license suspension.
- Alcohol limits for all drivers:
- Drivers with blood alcohol at or exceeding .05% face a 24-hour suspension, increasing to 30 days for repeated offenses.
- Levels at .08% or more result in a 90-day suspension.
- Federal penalties: Under the Criminal Code, impaired driving may result in fines, driving prohibitions, or imprisonment.
Cannabis
Transporting cannabis: Consuming cannabis or having an open container in a vehicle is illegal. Cannabis must be stored in its original, sealed container or in a closed container not accessible to the driver or passengers.
Medical cannabis users: All drivers are subject to the same laws, regardless of medical cannabis exemptions.
How long should I wait after using cannabis before driving? Everyone’s reaction to cannabis varies. The safest choice is to avoid driving if you have recently consumed cannabis.
Please note, this information is a summary and does not replace the law. For full details, consult the Motor Vehicles Act, the Criminal Code, and Bill C-46 (An Act to amend the Criminal Code).