Event: invited conference by Dr. Grégoire Larue (MAIC/UniSC)
On June 12, 2025, Dr Gregoire Larue of the Road Safety Research Collaboration (MAIC/UniSC) will give an invited talk for the International Center on Connected and Automated Vehicles (ICCAM) entitled:
Impaired driving performance research at the MAIC/ UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration (Australia)
Abstract: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a constant concern for road safety in Australia and around the world. Alcohol and cannabis are by far the most prevalent substances being used. The influence of alcohol and drugs such as cannabis (THC) can negatively impact a person's ability to drive, resulting in an increased likelihood of being involved in a crash. Since the legalisation of cannabis for therapeutic use in Australia in 2016 the use of unregistered medicinal cannabis products has surged, raising questions about the potential for increased risks on the roads. In Australia, drink and drug driving offences are based on thresholds (BAC of .05% for alcohol and no presence for THC), but may not be related to impaired driving performance, particularly in the case of THC, which can be found in body fluids days after consumption and after the impairing effects of cannabis have disappeared. Given that cannabis is now used as a medicine, it is vital to be able to accurately detect impairment rather than presence. The MAIC/ UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration is therefore currently undertaking a program of research on impairment with driving simulations, and Associate Professor Gregoire Larue will present the current advancement of this research in the seminar.
Biography: Associate Professor Gregoire Larue is a Principal Research Fellow at the University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia. He works within the MAIC/ UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration and leads the Data and Technology stream of the centre. His background combines applied mathematics, engineering, and road safety. He undertakes research studies looking at how technology can assist in detecting impaired driving performance using driving simulators, in vehicle technology, and human factors.