Its the first campaign since the recreational use of marijuana became legal
Mothers Against Drunk Driving has kicked off its 21st annual Red Ribbon campaign, reminding drives not to get behind the wheel impaired.
This is the first campaign since the recreational use of marijuana was legalized across Canada on October 17.
Windsor police Staff Sergeant Sean Bender says life is challenging for young people and they're more at risk of impaired driving.
"It affects them more, there's more distractions for them now," says Bender. "Younger drivers, the speed of life now is so fast and then you throw in impaired by drugs or alcohol and it just makes things much more difficult."
He says cannabis is no different than alcohol.
"Impaired is impaired, whether it be by drug or alcohol, impaired's impaired," according to Bender. "We're prepared for both, to investigate both, and people have to realize that if you're driving impaired by either drug or alcohol the potential for a major accident or arrest is there."
Windsor police Traffic Unit Staff Sergeant Sean Bender, Catholic Central High School, November 1, 2018 (by AM800's Peter Langille)
MADD Community Leader Chaouki Hamka says their message remains the same.
"Cannabis and other drugs impaired your ability to operate a motorized vehicle," says Hamka. "We want to make sure that it's clear in their mind, that no matter the amount, there's no set amount of how much you can drink or how much drugs you can consume. If you don't feel right, don't drive."
Hamka admits it may seem like a broken record, but reminding youth and the broader community not to drive impaired is critical.