Examining the Effects of Cannabis-based Edibles on Cognitive Health and Simulated Driving Performance in Young Drivers

There is increasing evidence showing an increase in motor vehicle crashes associated with young drivers who consume cannabis. While studies show that smoking or vaping cannabis is associated with impaired driving performance, there have been no studies examining the influence of edibles on driving performance. Additionally, prior studies have not defined the type of cannabis tested in research studies and there is a strong likelihood that different cannabis strains produce different impairments related to driving performance. Using a driving simulator, the objectives of the present study are to 1) to discern the effects of cannabis types (sativa and indica) on driving performance; 2) to determine at what time driving is most impaired; 3) to examine how long driving ability is impaired after edible consumption; and 4) to examine the association between driver perceptions, cognitive health, and driving performance.

Faculty Supervisor:

Alexander Crizzle

Student:

Partner:

CAA

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services

University:

University of Saskatchewan

Program: