Officials Warn of Marijuana-Impaired Driving Risks Ahead of 4/20

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Washington State Patrol urge drivers to plan ahead and avoid getting behind the wheel while impaired.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:41pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a car's ignition key and dashboard controls, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the serious risks of impaired driving.A stark reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence, as officials warn of increased impaired driving risks around the 4/20 holiday.Chelan Today

As April 20 approaches, officials are reminding drivers that it is illegal to drive under the influence of drugs in every state. The date, commonly referred to as '4/20,' is often associated with increased marijuana use, making it even more important for drivers to plan ahead and avoid getting behind the wheel while impaired.

Why it matters

Driving while impaired by any substance, including legal or illegal drugs, puts drivers and others at serious risk of harm. Officials are working to dispel the myth that marijuana use improves driving ability, which they call both false and dangerous.

The details

According to NHTSA data from 2019 to 2021, about 26% of drivers seriously injured or killed in crashes tested positive for marijuana. Authorities say marijuana can slow reaction times, impair judgment, and make it harder for drivers to maintain their lane — all factors that increase the risk of serious or deadly crashes.

  • The campaign message remains consistent: 'If You Feel Different, You Drive Different.'

The players

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

A federal government agency responsible for writing and enforcing safety standards for vehicles.

Washington State Patrol

The state law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling highways and enforcing traffic laws in Washington.

Trooper Jeremy Weber

A member of the Washington State Patrol who is warning drivers about the dangers of marijuana-impaired driving.

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What’s next

Authorities say they will be increasing patrols and enforcement efforts around 4/20 to identify and stop impaired drivers.

The takeaway

This campaign highlights the serious risks of driving under the influence of marijuana and the importance of planning ahead to avoid getting behind the wheel while impaired. It's a reminder that impaired driving, whether from legal or illegal substances, is never acceptable and puts lives at risk.