New research from AAA reveals a troubling trend among cannabis users: many are driving shortly after consuming, heightening the risk of impaired driving.
As cannabis use continues to rise in the U.S., with 38 states legalizing it for recreational or medical purposes, a significant portion of users may not be taking sufficient precautions.
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that nearly 45% of cannabis users consume multiple times a day, and 58% drive daily.
Alarmingly, over 80% admit to driving within hours of consumption, with nearly half believing that cannabis has little to no impact on their driving abilities.
To address these concerns, researchers emphasize the need for better education on the risks associated with impaired driving. The foundation conducted two studies: one assessing cannabis users’ perceptions of impaired driving and another exploring effective messaging strategies. Key findings include:
44.1% of users consume cannabis multiple times daily.
57.8% drive every day.
84.8% drive the same day they consume, with 53% doing so within an hour.
46.9% believe cannabis does not impair their driving or may even enhance it.
The studies suggest that messages focusing on personal responsibility and safety resonate more than those emphasizing legal risks.
Respondents prefer realistic, positive, and diverse messaging that avoids stereotypes.
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