Update:
A surprising new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals some drivers believe they drive better after smoking cannabis.
Ahead of April 20, also known as “Cannabis Day,” AAA is raising awareness about the myths surrounding cannabis use and driving.
“15% think their driving is a little bit better and almost 20% said their driving was much better, said Morgan Dean, a spokesperson for AAA. “Those are very concerning misperceptions about what cannabis does to someone and how dangerous it can be behind the wheel.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports these concerns, stating that cannabis can slow a driver’s reaction time, impair decision-making, and distort perception. This is also why some drivers expressed disbelief upon hearing the study’s results.
“No, there’s no way,” said Steven Holmes. “You’re driving high; it’s the same thing as driving drunk. People say they drive better when they’re drunk too, and I don’t believe that either.”
Others shared their skepticism about the purity of cannabis products. Lynn Glover recounted a troubling experience from her youth. “I don’t believe any of it’s pure. I believe all has something added to it. When I was young in the 70s, I actually tried weed, and someone had laced it. I went on a trip of a lifetime, and it scared me to death. I never touched it ever again.”
Cannabis consumption is legal in 38 states, with 24 states allowing recreational use, including Virginia. This makes cannabis the third most used substance in the U.S., after nicotine and alcohol. However, driving under the influence remains illegal.
“I think anything that impairs your ability to do something quickly, to react, or to avoid something shouldn’t be done,” said traveler Richard Bannick. “I don’t care what people do on the side, in their own homes, but not out here with a two-ton machine.”
As April 20 approaches, Dean added, “It puts everyone in their vehicle at risk and everyone in and around that road at risk. So, our big reminder to drivers is to not get behind the wheel impaired, whether it’s alcohol or cannabis.”
AAA hopes the study guides future campaigns aimed at keeping roads safe.
Original Story:
As cannabis becomes the third most commonly used substance in the United States, following nicotine and alcohol, concerns about its impact on driving safety are rising. With 4/20, also known as Cannabis Day, just days away, a new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals that many cannabis consumers hold misconceptions about the effects of cannabis on driving.
“Mistaken beliefs about the impact of cannabis on driving could result in resistance to public education outreach on impaired driving,” said Morgan Dean, public affairs manager for AAA Mid-Atlantic in Virginia. “There is widespread confusion about laws relating to cannabis, the impact cannabis has on driving ability, and law enforcement methods. Many consumers are unaware of legal limits or may believe police officers are unable to detect if they are high.”
Currently, some form of cannabis consumption is legal in 38 states—24 states allow recreational use, while 14 permit medical use only. As cannabis use increases, so does impaired driving related to cannabis, leading to a higher risk of crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
“Understanding what motivates cannabis consumers to drive under the influence can be helpful in developing effective safety strategies,” said Dr. David Yang, president and executive director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. “With insights on perceptions, decision-making, and behavior, we aim to inform policies and interventions that make our roads safer for everyone.”
Study findings on cannabis consumers
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety conducted two studies to analyze cannabis consumers’ thoughts and perceptions regarding driving under the influence. Key findings from the surveys include:
- Daily and frequent consumption: 44.1% of respondents reported consuming cannabis multiple times per day.
- Driving regularly: 57.8% indicated that they drive daily.
- Consuming then driving: 84.8% admitted to driving the same day they consumed cannabis, with 53% stating they consumed an hour or less before driving.
- Belief in minimal effects: 46.9% believe that cannabis has little effect on their driving, with some even claiming it improves their abilities.
- Trust in cannabis industry messaging: 38.6% said they would trust messages about cannabis use and safe driving from cannabis industry groups.
A statewide impaired driving survey from the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority revealed that 22% of Virginia drivers admitted to driving high a few times a year or more, and 46% of marijuana users do not always plan for a sober ride home.
