The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently gearing up for their 420 anti-drugged driving campaign. April 20th, also known as 420, is commonly associated with marijuana use, and is coming up next month. Officials with the NHTSA are hoping to get the word out about the dangers of drugged driving before April 20th. Their “If You Feel Different, You Drive Different” campaign is aimed at raising awareness about the physical and cognitive impacts of marijuana and other drugs on your ability to drive.
Drug Use Behind The Wheel is on The Rise
According to the NHTSA, drug prevalence is on the rise in U.S. driving. A survey conducted by the NHTSA found that the number of drivers testing positive for marijuana increased between 2007 and 2014, and that in 2007, 8.6 percent of weekend nighttime drivers tested positive for marijuana. In the 2013-2014 survey, 12.6 percent of weekend nighttime drivers tested positive for marijuana. That’s an increase of 48 percent in less than a decade.
If You Feel Different, You Drive Different
The campaign is really simple. If You Feel Different, You Drive Different. Whether it’s legally prescribed, over the counter or an illegal drug, any substance that makes you feel different, can make you drive differently. Marijuana in particular can reduce reaction times, impact cognitive functioning and lower your reaction times. These side effects can greatly impact your safety behind the wheel. On 420, and throughout the rest of the year, marijuana users are being urged to not get behind the wheel.
Drugged Driving Accidents in San Diego
After any kind of car accident involving drugged drivers, it’s important to speak with a Personal Injury Lawyer about your case. You may be entitled to compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages and other expenses associated with your injuries.
If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident involving a drugged driver in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.
