The Government of Canada reports that impaired driving is the leading cause of criminal death and injury in the country, most often caused by the effects of alcohol, and since its legalization, cannabis as well. Alcohol and cannabis significantly impair your judgment, ability to react, and greatly increase your chances of being involved in a crash. When a crash occurs while a driver is under the influence, it often ends in tragedy.

Never get behind the wheel if you are under the influence of alcohol or cannabis. Also, never enter a vehicle if you suspect the driver is under the influence. It is never worth risking your life with so many other safe options available, including public transit, taxis, carpooling and more. There is no reason anybody should ever drive while drunk or high.

In addition to loss of life and life-altering injuries, impaired drivers who survive typically face extreme fines and jail time for their severe violations of the law. Consider taking your friends’ keys away if they have been drinking or smoking, and hold yourself accountable to never put your life or others’ lives at risk by driving under the influence of alcohol or cannabis. Impaired driving is one of the worst decisions any person could ever make, and is likely to ruin the life of anybody caught.