Pubdate: Thu, 10 Apr 2003
Source: Halifax Herald (CN NS)
Copyright: 2003 The Halifax Herald Limited
Contact:  http://www.herald.ns.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/180
Author: Michael White
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?224 (Cannabis and Driving)

DETERRENCE NEEDED

A recent report, which was retracted 24 hours later, stated that insurers 
would be made aware of drivers being suspended for suspected drug use, 
which would cause an increase in their insurance costs.

Until there is a tool like the breathalyser, police have to use their own 
judgment when suspending licences of people they suspect of being impaired 
by a drug other than alcohol.

People who drive under the influence of drugs - and if marijuana laws are 
relaxed, there will be more of them - are part of the reason for increased 
insurance costs. Therefore, any means should be employed (such as notifying 
insurance companies of a driver's suspension) that could be a deterrent to 
stop irresponsible people from driving under the influence of drugs. 
Increased insurance costs for these people may be more of a deterrent than 
a fine or licence suspension.

Michael White, Dartmouth
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager