For the entire month of August, SGI and law enforcement across the province are putting extra effort towards combatting impaired driving. 

Something that Tyler McMurchy, Manager of Media Relations with the Crown corporation, wanted to make clear is that impaired driving isn't just getting behind the wheel when you've been drinking alcohol. Impaired driving can include consumption of alcohol, marijuana or any type of narcotic and prescription pills as well. 

"It's important to remember that police can and do charge people with driving while impaired under the criminal code. They do have the tools and the training to detect drug-impaired drivers, not just alcohol-impaired drivers," said McMurchy.

With legalization around the corner this fall, McMurchy wants to reassure residents that there will be consequences for those getting behind the wheel while high and that law enforcement is gearing up for the task.   

"Marijuana is an impairing drug; it is not something you should use and then drive while you are still under the influence. We know that marijuana affects judgment, reaction time, motor coordination and the ability to make decisions. It can cause paranoia, drowsiness and distorted perception in a sense of disorientation. None of that is safe when you're operating a motor vehicle. We want to get the message out to people that driving high is a DUI."

And even though marijuana and alcohol are normally in the spotlight when the subject of impaired driving is brought up, he noted that it still applies to people who are using strong medications too. 

"You will see labels on prescription medications that say do not operate heavy machinery after taking, so it doesn't matter if you have a prescription for it. If it impairs you, you should not be using it and driving."

 McMurchy said it all boils down to finding a sober driving prior to becoming intoxicated with any type of substance. 

Click here to head to SGI's website for more information.