A recent survey has revealed that 53% of marijuana users consume the substance an hour or less before driving. This finding raises serious concerns about road safety, especially as cannabis becomes increasingly popular across the United States. Currently, cannabis is the third-most used substance in the country, with Michigan being home to one of the largest adult-use recreational marijuana markets.
According to studies conducted by AAA, nearly 85% of cannabis users reported driving on the same day they consume marijuana. Among these users, 44% stated they use it multiple times a day. Alarmingly, almost 47% of respondents believe they drive the same while under the influence, and 34% even think it improves their driving skills.
The legalization of cannabis has led to 38 states permitting some form of weed consumption, with 24 allowing recreational use. Michigan’s burgeoning market has generated hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue for the state and local communities, contributing to some of the highest cannabis consumption rates in the nation.
To better understand cannabis consumer behavior, AAA surveyed users about their perceptions of safe consumption messaging. About 39% of participants indicated they would trust safety messages from cannabis industry groups and companies. The survey highlighted that effective campaigns should focus on personal responsibility and safety concerns rather than just the legal risks of driving under the influence.
Dr. David Yang, president of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, emphasized the need to comprehend the motivations behind driving under the influence of cannabis. He stated that this understanding could aid in developing strategies to enhance road safety. Meanwhile, Jake Nelson, a director in traffic safety advocacy, pointed out that messaging should include credible voices and real-world scenarios, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of cannabis consumers.
The information in this article is based on an AAA survey of 300 Michigan residents conducted from August 16-20, 2024, along with previous reporting on the topic.
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