A study released by AAA this month reveals concerning statistics about cannabis use and driving, with nearly 85% of cannabis consumers admitting to driving on the same day as consumption. Of those, 53% reported consuming a cannabis product an hour or less before driving. Surprisingly, 46.9% said their driving habits remained unchanged after consumption, while 14.7% felt they drove better, and 19.4% claimed to drive much better.
The study also found that 44.1% of respondents consumed cannabis multiple times per day, and 57.8% drove daily, underscoring the prevalence of cannabis use among those who also drive regularly.
In addition to the driving data, a previous AAA study explored attitudes and perceptions around driving under the influence of cannabis to inform future safety messaging. It found that 38.6% of respondents would trust messaging from cannabis industry groups or brands regarding safe driving practices. The study concluded that messages focusing on personal responsibility and safety concerns resonated most with consumers, with credible voices and real-world scenarios being key to impactful communication.
Jake Nelson, AAA’s director of traffic safety advocacy, emphasized that “Effective messaging about cannabis-impaired driving needs to include credible voices, real-world scenarios, and respectful language” that avoids stereotypes.
For more insights on cannabis-related driving habits and effective safety messaging, stay updated with the latest reports and findings.
