Some conversations can be tricky for parents, but probably the most important one you need to sum up the courage for is about drug-impaired driving. Young people continue to be the largest group of drivers who die in crashes and later test positive for alcohol or drugs, yet according to Health Canada, only 11% of parents surveyed said they had discussed the risks of driving under the influence of a drug with their teenagers. This number drops to 4% when teens themselves were asked if their parents have spoken to them about drugs and driving.
As a parent, you play a vital role in teaching your kids to drive responsibly. Here are some tips to begin a productive dialogue to help keep young people safe behind the wheel.
• Look for opportunities – It’s easier to start a discussion when the subject naturally comes up, such as when talking about current events. Think ahead about the main points you want to discuss so you don’t speak on impulse when the opportunity presents itself, or if they start asking questions.
• Focus on facts – Let them know you are trying to help them make good decisions by giving them the information they may not already know. Discuss how even a small amount of drugs or alcohol can impair driving ability, affect perception, and slow reaction times when driving. Remind them that despite popular myth, driving after using cannabis is not safer than driving drunk.
• Be clear about why you are worried – Communicate that your priority is their well-being, and you are concerned because drug-impaired driving is both dangerous and illegal. For example, marijuana is the second most commonly detected substance among drivers who die in traffic crashes in Canada. Besides an accident, there are real-life consequences if they are charged with driving while impaired, including a suspended license, fines, criminal charges, and even jail time.
• Bring up passenger dangers – In a Health Canada survey, 15% of students in grades 7 to 12 reported being a passenger in a vehicle driven by someone who had used cannabis in the previous two hours. Being a passenger with an impaired driver is risky, so let them know they can always count on you for a ride without judgment.
• Set an example – You are your teen’s best source of support for achieving a happy and healthy lifestyle. Be sure to model safe driving behavior and never drive any vehicle while impaired.
