4/20: We’ll Be Blunt - Stay Off the Roads if You’re High

CTDOT Press Releases

04/19/2024

4/20: We'll Be Blunt - Stay Off the Roads if You're High

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is joining State and local law enforcement agencies to remind the public about the dangers of driving impaired. April 20 is often recognized as an unofficial cannabis "celebration," and the public is reminded that impaired driving is illegal and deadly. This year, April 20 falls on a Saturday, which means there could potentially be more impaired drivers on the roads. The CTDOT wants to remind all drivers: Driving High Equals a DUI. It is dangerous and illegal to drive impaired by cannabis, or any other drug.

Connecticut's drugged driving law does not depend on a specific level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the substance most responsible for the effects of cannabis, in a driver's blood. Connecticut lawstates that a person operating a vehicle commits the crime of DUI "while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug or both." In 2022, there were 2,920 impaired driving crashes in Connecticut, according to the Crash Data Repository.

"It's simple: don't drive while impaired regardless of the substance. It was dangerous and against the law prior to the legalization of recreational cannabis, and it's dangerous and against the law today," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Have a plan if you're planning to partake and help keep our roadways safe."

"Although cannabis use is legal, it's still illegal to use cannabis while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers operating under the influence of alcohol, cannabis or narcotics put themselves and everyone on our roadways at risk of injury or death," said Connecticut State Police Colonel Daniel Loughman. "Driving high isn't just impaired judgment; it's impaired responsibility. Be our partners and call 911 immediately if you suspect someone may be operating a motor vehicle under the influence."

"Operating a vehicle while impaired by cannabis or any other drug is equally illegal and as dangerous as driving while under the influence of alcohol," said Chief Joshua Bernegger of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association (CPCA). "If you drive high, expect a DUI."

The public is asked to remember these safety tips and spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues:

• If you have used an impairing substance such as cannabis, do not drive. Passengers should never ride with an impaired driver. Do not get in the car if you think a driver may be impaired.
• If you are planning to use drugs, arrange for a sober driver to drive you safely to your destination. Like drunk driving, drug-impaired drivers must refrain from driving a vehicle. It is never okay to drive while impaired by any substance.
• Even over-the-counter and prescription medications can have impairing effects. Take caution before driving after using any medication.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement by dialing 911 when it is safe to do so.

Recreational cannabis sales are legal in Connecticut for adults over 21. However, it is essential to remember that operating a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis is illegal and carries the same penalties as driving under the influence of alcohol or any other drug. A police officer can test an operator based on the odor of cannabis if, at the time, they reasonably suspect the operator is under the influence of the same.

For information on the dangers of impaired driving, visit nhtsa.gov.

For information and resources related to responsible cannabis use, as well as addiction prevention, visit ct.gov/cannabis.

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