TRENTON, NJ – Police across New Jersey are partnering with the federal government to crack down on impaired driving on 4/20, known as an annual marijuana holiday across the country.
The 20th of April, commonly known as “420,” has become a well-known date for marijuana enthusiasts worldwide. As the date approaches, it is expected that there will be an increase in marijuana use, which could lead to an increase in drug-impaired driving incidents. In an effort to combat this, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has teamed up with state and local traffic safety advocates to spread the message that drug-impaired driving is both dangerous and illegal.
While the origins of “420” are uncertain, the date has been associated with marijuana use for decades, and in some circles, it is considered a “marijuana holiday.” However, driving under the influence of any drug, including marijuana, is a serious offense that can have severe consequences.
According to data from the NHTSA, drug-impaired driving is on the rise in the United States. In 2019, 42% of drivers killed in crashes tested positive for drugs, up from 28% a decade earlier. The NHTSA has been actively working to combat drug-impaired driving by promoting education and awareness campaigns, including during the “420” holiday.
State and local traffic safety advocates are also doing their part to keep stoned drivers off the road. This partnership between the NHTSA and advocates aims to remind drivers that getting behind the wheel after using drugs, including marijuana, is not only illegal but also puts lives at risk.
As more states continue to legalize marijuana for medical and recreational use, the issue of drug-impaired driving has become more critical. It is essential for drivers to understand the risks and consequences of drug-impaired driving and to make responsible decisions behind the wheel.
The NHTSA and its partners hope that their efforts will help reduce drug-impaired driving incidents and keep the roads safer for everyone.