Concerning numbers of cannabis-impaired drivers in city: Winnipeg police

A Winnipeg police vehicle is photographed at a scene in Winnipeg, Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Lipnowski

Winnipeg police say they’re still catching people who are driving while high.

Between January and March 2025, 207 drug screen tests were completed, and 97 drivers tested positive for cannabis consumption, resulting in 47 per cent of all drivers tested being under the influence.

“All of these drivers that were found positive for cannabis were found in all areas of the city,” said Patrol Sgt. Stephane Fontaine with the Winnipeg Police Service.

“So unfortunately, the poor choice of driving while under the influence of cannabis was found everywhere in our city.”

In 2024, 43 per cent of drivers tested positive for cannabis.

Justice Minister Matt Wiebe called the recent numbers disturbing.

“While alcohol remains the leading cause of impaired driving offences, cannabis impairment is now the second highest contributor,” he said. “This is a reality that we cannot ignore.”

A particular focus of the campaign was education about the effects of taking cannabis edibles before getting behind the wheel.

“Unlike inhaled cannabis, edibles take longer to process in the body, with effects peaking up to four hours after consumption and lasting up to 12 hours after consumption,” Wiebe said, adding it can lead to slower reaction times for drivers.

Fontaine said people need to make plans to not drive impaired.

“Friends and family should have these discussions and ultimately plan ahead before consuming any impairing substance,” he said.

Police also issued 86 provincial offence act notices for improper storage of cannabis in their vehicles or consuming cannabis inside a vehicle as a passenger.