Did you know that December is officially Drugged Driving Day? That means, across the United States, it is a time for us to remember individuals who have fallen victim to drugged drivers and consider how we can prevent future tragedies from taking place. Equally dangers as drunk driving, drugged driving is an unfortunate contributor to fatal motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). Like addition, however, it is one of the easiest problems we can prevent. Even more interesting, though, these rising cases of drugged driving can be directly tied to marijuana, a testy situation when you consider how popular the drug has become over the past couple of years. So, in time for the month of December, let’s take a closer look at some facts about drugged driving today.
Defining Drug-Impaired Driving
So, what exactly is drugged driving? Also known as drug-impaired driving, this incident occurs when a person has consumed drugs (including prescription medications, marijuana, or illegal substances) and has started to drive a vehicle while under the influence of one or more of these substances. As a whole, these drugs will induce chemical changes in the brain and make people lose focus, coordination, perception, and attentiveness. Even the smallest amount of these substances can impair cognitive and physical functions.
In fact, based on a national study, 22.5% of drivers who were on the roads at night on the weekend tested positive for one or more of these drugs: illegal, prescription, and OTC. Besides alcohol, marijuana is the most common drug reported by law enforcement officials.
The Problem with Roadside Marijuana
After the huge craze of marijuana in the modern media, you can imagine that law enforcement has to be on its collective toes as more and more people start to toke and drive at the same time. In fact, more than one-eighth of high school seniors has openly admitted to driving their vehicles while they were high on weed. Even more disturbing, 27% of American parents believe it is okay to drive while under the influence of marijuana.
(Keep in mind that the same rules of the road apply to pot-legal states.)
Always remember that mind-altering drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
