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## crash fact 

A driver who combines alcohol and drugs is nine times more likely to have a crash than a sober driver. 

Australian study, O. Drummer, 1994 

## Illegal drugs 

Recreational or street drugs such as speed, heroin and cocaine have a wide variety of effects including those noted under Medications  on the previous page, as well as: 

• hallucinations 

• altered perception 

• feelings of invincibility 

• lack of judgment. 

## Cannabis 

Cannabis may cause a driver to: 

• have difficulty following the movement of vehicles or pedestrians accurately 

• misunderstand visual cues from the driving environment 

• delay responses, especially in emergency situations. 

## Drugs and alcohol 

Many drugs will greatly increase impairment when combined with even small amounts of alcohol. 

## Taking risks 

## You in the driver’s seat 

You’re alone and driving on a straight stretch of highway. You’re tempted to floor it. 

What choice will you make? 

New drivers differ in how they manage risk. You probably know drivers who are unsure of what actions to take and are nervous around other road users. These people lack confidence in their skills. And then there are overconfident drivers — the ones who think they are much better drivers than they really are. Both overconfident drivers and those who lack confidence need to learn more and take more time to practise their skills. 

A few people adopt a dangerous driving style, seeking out excitement through speeding and taking risks. These people are thrill-seekers — they enjoy speeding, tailgating or passing unsafely. 

What kind of driving style do you plan to have? Do you want to stay within your skill level? Do you think it is better to be cautious rather than take too many chances? Driving attitude or style is something you choose. 

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