LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – As April 20 approaches — a date commonly associated with marijuana use — the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is joining forces with Arkansas law enforcement to remind drivers that impaired driving is both illegal and dangerous.
The campaign, built around the slogan If You Feel Different, You Drive Different. Drive High, Get a DWI, aims to raise awareness about the dangers of drug-impaired driving, particularly amid changing marijuana laws across the country.
“Use good judgment,” said Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar. “Obey the law and make safe choices when driving a vehicle. Your decisions don’t just affect you — they affect everyone on the road.”
According to NHTSA, marijuana use can impair cognitive performance, slow reaction times, and make it difficult for drivers to maintain proper lane position — all of which increase the risk of a crash. The agency is encouraging Arkansans who plan to use marijuana on 4/20, or any day, to arrange alternative transportation.
Officials advise drivers to hand off their keys to a sober friend, use a ride-share service or public transportation, and step in to prevent others from driving while impaired.
The Arkansas Highway Safety Office is urging residents to take part in spreading the campaign’s message and help prevent needless traffic deaths. More information is available at nhtsa.gov and tzdarkansas.org, part of the state’s Toward Zero Deaths initiative. For local information, contact the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136.
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