Great Lakes Wire

The Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP) is urging cannabis enthusiasts to plan a safe ride home as the unofficial holiday of April 20, or 4/20, approaches. The OHSP, along with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is reminding cannabis users about the dangers and illegality of driving under the influence of cannabis.

OHSP director, Katie Bower, emphasized the importance of responsible decision-making, stating, "If you are impaired by drugs or alcohol, you should never get behind the wheel." Bower further advised, “Those who plan to use cannabis on 4/20 — or any day — should not drive.”

Statistics from Michigan in 2022 revealed that drug-impaired driving is a significant concern, with 21.7 percent of fatal crashes involving at least one drugged driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian. Bower highlighted the impact of impaired driving, stating, “Your decisions don’t just affect you — they affect everyone on the road.”

In 2022, out of the 225 motor vehicle drivers suspected of drug use involved in fatal crashes in Michigan, 79.6 percent were male and 20.4 percent were female. Bower stressed the risks associated with drug-impaired driving, noting that cannabis can impair cognitive performance and reaction times, making it dangerous for drivers to operate a vehicle.

The OHSP director recommended finding a sober ride home if individuals find themselves drug-impaired, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of all road users. Bower highlighted the availability of options such as sober friends or ride-share services to help impaired drivers reach their destinations safely.

As cannabis use continues to increase, the OHSP and NHTSA are encouraging individuals to prioritize safety and make responsible choices when it comes to driving under the influence. For more information on drugged driving, the NHTSA website provides resources at www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drug-impaired-driving.