2024 4/20 If You Feel Different, You Drive Different.
FACT SHEET & TALKING POINTS
Drug-impaired driving has become an increasing danger on our nation’s roads. In recent years,
several states have created new laws allowing marijuana use on a recreational or medical
basis, which has made discussing the issue of impaired driving even more important. The U.S.
Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) wants
all marijuana users to know that nationally, it is illegal to use marijuana and then drive.
On the 20th of April (also known as 4/20 — a date associated with marijuana use) many
marijuana users will observe a day of increased marijuana use. This year, April 20th is on a
Saturday, which means more impaired drivers are likely to be on the roads. NHTSA wants to
remind all drivers: If You Feel Different, You Drive Different. It is dangerous and illegal to
drive impaired. Read on for more information about the dangers of drug-impaired driving.
Know the Facts
If you’re planning to use marijuana or any impairing drug, do not drive. Designate a
sober driver who won’t be using any drugs or call a ridesharing service or taxi.
Someone who’s high shouldn’t be making decisions about driving; that’s why planning
ahead is key.
It doesn’t matter what term you use — high, stoned, or wasted — never get behind the
wheel after using an impairing substance.
In every U.S. state and territory, it is illegal to drive under the influence of drugs — no
exceptions.
Whether the drug is legally obtained or not, drug-impaired driving poses a threat to
everyone on the road.
If you think driving while high from marijuana won’t affect you, you are wrong: It has
been shown that marijuana can slow reaction times, impair cognitive performance,
and make it more difficult for drivers to keep a steady position in their lane.
[Local statistic if available.]
Only Drive Sober
If you are planning to use drugs, plan ahead for a sober driver to safely drive you to
your destination. Like drunk driving, it is essential that drug-impaired drivers refrain
from driving a vehicle. It is never okay to drive while impaired by any substance
—regardless of whether it was legally obtained.
If you have used an impairing substance such as marijuana, do not drive. Passengers
should never ride with an impaired driver. If you think a driver may be impaired, do
not get in the car.
Do you have a friend who is about to drive while impaired by drugs? Take the keys
away and arrange to get them home safely. Don’t worry about offending someone —
they’ll thank you later. And you might just save a life.
If available, use your community’s sober ride program [Insert your local sober ride
program specifics here].
If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact [Local Law Enforcement].
For more information, visit www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/get-materials/drug-impaired-
driving/if-you-feel-different-you-drive-different.
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