Law Enforcement will be stepping up patrols Thursday to combat drug-impaired driving.
State Police will run an impaired driving prevention and enforcement campaign throughout New York on 4/20, a day treated by many as a marijuana holiday.
Besides cannabis, troopers will also be targeting drunk driving.
“Drug-impaired driving is a reckless, dangerous choice that puts everyone on our roadways at risk,” Governor Hochul said. “To avoid the deadly consequences, do not get behind the wheel and always make sure to have a travel plan to get home safely.”
New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli said, “Drug-impaired driving causes thousands of injuries and deaths each year. Unfortunately, few people recognize the dangers of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs. Even if you feel fine, do not get behind the wheel. The New York State Police reminds all motorists that although adult recreational use of cannabis is legal, it is still illegal to drive while impaired.”
Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and GTSC Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “Impaired driving is 100 percent preventable. While adult use cannabis is legal, driving under the influence of it, is not. Getting behind the wheel after using cannabis can slow your reaction time, impair coordination and your ability to make quick decisions, thereby putting yourself, your passengers and other motorists at risk. The consequences could be deadly. If you’re consuming cannabis, don’t drive high. Have a plan to stay off the roadways.”
Office of Cannabis Management Executive Director Chris Alexander said, “It’s simple: don’t drive after consuming cannabis. It was dangerous and against the law before cannabis was legalized in New York State, and it’s still dangerous and against the law today.”
