WEEDING OUT THE TRUTH: MARIJUANA NOT A FACTOR IN AUTO ACCIDENTS

WEEDING OUT THE TRUTH: MARIJUANA NOT A FACTOR IN AUTO ACCIDENTS

TORONTO, Can. (Wireless Flash) -- A new study is weeding out the truth about the effects marijuana has on automobile accidents. The study -- conducted by University of Toronto engineering professor Alison Smiley -- suggests that while smoking marijuana does impair driving ability, it doesn't have much of an effect on actual auto accidents. The study shows that while both pot and booze impair performance, marijuana smokers remain aware of their impairment and compensate by driving more cautiously. But folks who booze it up before hitting the road are more likely to engage in reckless behavior. Although Smiley doesn't advocate the legalization of marijuana, she says her results suggest that just because pot's illegal, that doesn't mean it increases the risk of an auto accident. In her words, "We should just try to stick to the facts."

CONTACT: Dr. Alison Smiley; Toronto, ONT; (416) 596-1252