JEFFERSON CITY - The Missouri Department of Transportation is asking drivers not to go green this weekend.
No, they're not referring to Earth Day (coming Monday). April 20, known by cannabis enthusiasts as 420, is Saturday - and Missouri law enforcement will be out in full force to crack down on drug-impaired driving offenders, according to a news release from MoDOT officials.
Missouri recently followed the lead of many other states to legalize marijuana for medicinal use, but it is still illegal in all states to drive under its influence.
"Driving drug-impaired or riding with someone who is drug-impaired is not worth the risk," said Jon Nelson, MoDOT assistant to the state highway safety and traffic engineer. "Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for driving while substance-impaired can be significant. The consequences are serious and real."
According to preliminary 2018 data, 78 people were killed and 142 more were seriously injured in Missouri traffic crashes that involved at least one drug-impaired driver. The news release does not specify the drugs involved in those crashes. Studies have indicated marijuana use can negatively impact reaction time (especially in inexperienced users) and motor control, and a 2015 study found having elevated blood THC levels impairs driving ability.
As MoDOT puts it: if you feel different, you drive different.
The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety reminds motorists of the various options available to get everyone home safe. Designating a sober driver, calling a cab or using public transportation are just a few of those options.
"We encourage all drivers to take responsibility and make smart choices so that everyone gets home safe," Nelson said. "Drive sober, buckle up and phone down."
To learn more, visit the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety at savemolives.com, or on social media at Save MO Lives.