UBC Driving Simulator Study: Cannabis and Driving Research
Researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) are currently recruiting participants for an ongoing driving simulator study exploring how cannabis used for therapeutic purposes may impact driving performance, cognition, and blood THC levels.
This study is designed to help researchers better understand cannabis use and driving safety in real-world therapeutic cannabis users.
What Is the Purpose of the Study?
The study aims to evaluate how cannabis may affect:
- Driving performance
- Cognitive function
- Reaction time and attention
- Blood cannabinoid levels (including THC)
Researchers are studying both:
- Individuals who are about to begin using cannabis for therapeutic purposes
- Individuals who are currently using cannabis therapeutically
Who May Be Eligible?
You may qualify to participate if you:
- Use (or are planning to use) THC-containing cannabis for a therapeutic purpose, such as:
- Are between 18–79 years old
- Have a Class 5 or 7 driver’s license
- Drive at least once per week
- Speak fluent English
- Live in the Greater Vancouver area
Participants no longer need to use cannabis under physician supervision or recommendation. As long as cannabis is being used for a therapeutic purpose, you may be eligible to participate.
What Is Involved?
Depending on the study group, participation may include:
- Driving on a high-fidelity simulator
- Completing cognitive tasks
- Providing blood, urine, and breathalyzer samples
- Monitoring blood THC and cannabinoid levels
- Participating in multiple study visits over time
Study visits take place near Vancouver General Hospital.
Compensation & Participant Benefits
Participants may receive:
- Honorarium compensation
- Personalized driving simulator results
- Blood cannabinoid level results
- Transportation to and from the testing site (within the Greater Vancouver area)
- Meals during study visits (where applicable)
Who Is Not Eligible?
You may not be eligible if you:
- Have severe motion or simulator sickness
- Have medical conditions that significantly impair driving ability
- Have certain neurological or visual conditions
- Weigh more than 250 pounds
Additional eligibility criteria may apply.
Interested in Participating?
For more information, contact the research team directly:
📧 emed.driversim@ubc.ca
📞 604-307-4519
Principal Investigator: Dr. Jeffrey R. Brubacher