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JAMESTOWN, NY (WNY News Now) – Law enforcement across the Empire State are cracking down on drug-impaired driving during “World Weed Day.”
Thursday April 20 is “4/20” which is set aside to celebrate the benefits of cannabis. However, New York State Police are reminding motorists that driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, including cannabis, is not only dangerous, it is illegal.
Since recreational marijuana was legalized in 2021, state police have increased the number of Drug Recognition Experts across the state.
If you’re planning to consume cannabis, do not drive. Just like alcohol, designate a sober driver who won’t be consuming, use public transportation or a ride-sharing services.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, between 2009 and 2018, of those drivers killed in crashes and tested, the presence of cannabis had nearly doubled.
More tips from the NHTSA are posted below:
- It doesn’t matter what term you use: If a person is feeling a little high, buzzed, stoned, wasted, or drunk, he or she is impaired and should never get behind the wheel.
- In every U.S. state and territory, it is illegal to drive under the influence of drugs — no exceptions.
- Whether the drug is legal or not, drug-impaired driving poses a threat to the driver, passengers, and other road users.
- If you think driving high won’t affect you, you are wrong: It has been shown that cannabis can slow reaction times, impair cognitive performance, and make it more difficult for drivers to keep a steady position in their lane.
- Your best defense against impaired drivers on the road is your seat belt. Wear it on every trip, and make sure your passengers do, too.
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