Drugged driving is driving under the influence of legal or illegal substances. Many people know that it isn’t safe to drive after drinking alcohol. It’s also unsafe to drive after using illicit drugs or after misusing prescription drugs.
Driving under the influence of drugs is dangerous not just for the person using drugs, but also for passengers and other people who share the road. And driving while high is against the law.
How common is drugged driving?
It’s more common than you might think. Take a look at the statistics in the infographic below.
What are the effects of drugs on driving?
Marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, opioids, sedatives, and alcohol all make driving unsafe.
How can you help prevent friends from driving while on drugs?
- Find a safe ride to and from any party. If you end up without a safe ride home, call a sober friend, a parent, or another trusted adult.
- If you have a valid driver’s license, offer to be a designated driver.
- Speak up! Talk with your friends about the risks of driving on drugs.
- Hold an event or activity that focuses on drugged driving during National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week® in January 2020.
- Would you help a friend to stop using drugs
- Find out more about how Interventions can save lives.
