Every day, millions of drivers flood America’s streets, driving to and from work, school, and social events. The importance drivers place on safe driving cannot be understated. Refraining from drinking and driving and distracted driving, choosing to wear a seat belt, and following the speed limit are all positive behaviors that help keep drivers, passengers, and other road users safe.
Unfortunately, many drivers taking prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal drugs do not consider the drug’s effect on their driving skills. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is clear that any form of impaired driving is illegal regardless of whether the impairment is caused by drugs or alcohol. It doesn’t matter what term is used, if a person is high, stoned, wasted, or drunk he or she is impaired. Driving while impaired by any substance is illegal and can be deadly to the driver and other road users. If you are driving under the influence of any drug, legal or illegal, you can be arrested for a DUI.
Remember these safety tips as you drive, and spread the message to your friends and family members:
- If a driver has ingested an impairing substance, such as prescription drugs, sleep medication, marijuana, or any form of illegal drug, he or she should not drive. Passengers should never ride with an impaired driver. If you think a driver may be impaired, do not get in the car with them.
- If you are drug-impaired, pass your keys to a sober driver who can safely drive you to your final 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. If You Feel Different, You Drive Different.
- 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.
Violating State DUI laws includes driving under the influence of any impairing substance, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, illegal drugs, and alcohol. Remember, any impairment, including drugs, is illegal if you are operating a vehicle. On average, a DUI can set you back $10,000 in attorney fees, fines, court costs, lost time at work, higher insurance rates, car towing and repairs, and more. The financial impact from impaired-driving crashes is devastating. If you are driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol, you could be arrested for a DUI. Give your keys to a sober friend and ask them to help you get home safely.