The national cannabis holiday ‘4/20’ can mean high stakes on our nation’s roadways. Recent AAA research revealed an alarming stat, about 85% of cannabis users admit to driving the same day after consumption.
“Regardless of whether cannabis is legal or prescribed, driving under the influence of the drug is illegal and extremely dangerous,” said Molly Hart, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “When you drive high, your reflexes, focus, and decision-making can all go up in smoke. Driving in this state makes the highway a high-risk area for other motorists.”
A recent study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety used surveys to gain a deeper understanding of cannabis consumers’ behaviors and perceptions of themselves. A few key themes emerged from survey respondents who are confirmed cannabis consumers:
- Daily and frequent consumption – 44.1% said they consume cannabis multiple times per day
- Driving regularly – 57.8% indicated that they drive daily
- Consuming then driving is common – 84.8% revealed that they drive the same day that they consume cannabis, with 53% saying they consumed an hour or less before driving
- Believe consumption has little effect on driving – 46.9% believe they either drive the same, a little better (14.7%), or much better (19.4%)
- Cannabis industry carries weight – 38.6% said they would trust messaging about cannabis use and safe driving from cannabis industry groups and cannabis brands/companies (37.3%)
“The road requires clear heads not clouded minds,” said Hart. “If you plan to celebrate 4/20, find a safe ride before taking any impairing substances. This is critical so motorists are not in the position of having to decide if they’re sober enough to drive.”
‘Crashes Hit Different’ Campaign
The effort to educate motorists about the dangers of impaired driving and other risky behaviors behind the wheel is part of AAA – The Auto Club Group’s new traffic safety campaign “Crashes Hit Different.” On average, someone is killed in a car crash every 12 minutes on our nation’s roads, primarily due to four factors: impaired driving, distractions, not buckling up and speed. By partnering with roadway safety organizations, community groups, and drivers themselves, AAA aims to prevent these senseless tragedies.
In 2024, AAA – The Auto Club Group conducted a traffic safety survey asking Illinois residents whether their state has done enough to address the traffic safety implications of cannabis impaired driving since its legalization. Over half (53%) said more could be done through law enforcement, while 56% said more could be done through public education.
Find more AAA information regarding cannabis-impaired driving here.
About the AAA – The Auto Club Group Traffic Safety Survey
The Auto Club Group (ACG) Traffic Safety survey was conducted online among Illinois residents living in ACG territory from August 16 – 20, 2024. A total of 300 residents completed the survey. Survey results have a maximum margin of error of ± 5.7% points. Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+) in Illinois.
About The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
Established in 1947 by AAA, the Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by researching their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research informs the development of educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users.
***Courtesy of The Auto Club Group***
