DRIVERS, TRASH THE POT

Think twice before you get behind the wheel after lighting up a
marijuana joint.

A new law coming into effect Wednesday gives police the authority to
demand a blood, urine or saliva sample from drivers suspected of
being under the influence of drugs. Previously, people had the right
to refuse to submit to the tests.

"Increasingly, the message was getting out there that you don't need
to take these tests," said Justice Minister Rob Nicholson yesterday
in front of the Toronto Police marine unit headquarters.

"If you refuse now, you will be charged."

If convicted of drug impaired driving, drivers face a minimum of
$1,000 in fines with jail time mandatory for multiple convictions.

JUST AS BAD

"Driving impaired by drugs is just as bad as driving under the
influence of alcohol and the consequences are just as bad," said Anne
Leonard of the Ontario Community Council on Impaired Driving.

It's a message that is not getting through.

"The effects of cannabis lasts four to six hours," said York Regional
Police Sgt. Robert Martin. "But 20% of high school students are
driving within one hour of use."

Martin has been training officers on how to detect drug impaired
drivers. Police will go through an 11-point evaluation.

Not everyone is supportive. Chris, who didn't want his last name
used, admits to using drugs both before driving and occasionally
while in his car.

"Every ticket I've ever got, I've been sober."