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Beyond just intoxication: An exploration of the potential links between problematic cannabis use, self-reported psychological dysfunction, and subjective driving capabilities
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Beyond just intoxication: An exploration of the potential links between problematic cannabis use, self-reported psychological dysfunction, and subjective driving capabilities

Steven Love and Kerry Armstrong
Journal of Safety Research, Vol.97, pp.479-491
2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsr.2026.04.016
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1-s2.0-S0022437526000733-main1.32 MBDownloadView
Published Version Open Access CC BY-NC-ND V4.0

Abstract

Dependence Driving ability Driving inattention Marijuana Mental health
Introduction: Problematic cannabis use has been linked to cognitive impairment and psychopathology, which may adversely affect an individual's ability to regulate attention and drive safely. This study examined associations between likely cannabis dependency, cannabis-related psychological symptoms, subjective general driving efficacy, and general driving inattention. It also aimed to compare these factors between specific cohorts of active cannabis users and a comparative sample of low-frequency substance users. Method: An online survey was disseminated to Australian residents aged 20–65 years, who drove at least one hour per week, and did not have a physical condition impairing driving. Active users (N = 271) had consumed cannabis within the past month, whereas the comparison group (N = 159) reported minimal substance use. Results: MANOVAs showed that likely dependent cannabis (n = 114) users reported the greatest psychological symptoms and driving inattention, and the lowest subjective driving efficacy, followed by low-frequency substance users, and then likely non-dependent cannabis users (n = 157). However, no significant differences emerged between those who used medically prescribed compared to non-prescribed cannabis. Correlational analyses further revealed significant associations between likely cannabis dependency, psychological symptoms, subjective driving efficacy, and driving inattention. Finally, structural equation modeling showed that likely cannabis dependency was indirectly associated with subjective driving efficacy and driving inattention through its relationship with emotional and cognitive dysfunction. Conclusions: Overall, these findings suggest that problematic cannabis use is associated with poorer driving capabilities, likely linked to greater psychological dysfunction and cognitive-attentional deficits. In turn, the findings highlight the importance of integrating chronic cannabis-related risks into driving research, policy, and regulation.

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