Kansas law enforcement cracking down on impaired driving on 4/20
WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - Law enforcement agencies across Kansas will increase enforcement from April 18-22 to crack down on impaired driving.
The Kansas Department of Transportation said there may be a greater potential for drug-impaired driving as April 20, also known as 420 in “cannabis culture,” is recognized as a “marijuana holiday.”
As the date approaches, KDOT and the Drive To Zero Coalition have launched the “If You Feel Different You Drive Different” safety campaign.
“Nobody should ever drive while under the influence of any impairing substance, it’s illegal, and it could be deadly,” said Gary Herman, KDOT Behavior Safety Manager. “The effects of drugs such as marijuana are no less dangerous than driving after drinking alcohol. Judgment and reaction time is compromised, putting everyone at risk on the road with a driver potentially driving high.”
According to a KDOT 2023 preliminary data, 59 people died last year in Kansas crashes where drugs were involved. Another 265 people sustained reported injuries in drug-related crashes.
KDOT and the DTZ Coalition are sharing these tips in hopes of cutting down on drug-related crashes:
- Never ride with an impaired driver.
- If you have ingested an impairing substance, hand your keys over to a sober driver.
- Take the keys from someone who is impaired and help them get home safely.
- Call a taxi or use a rideshare service.
- Contact law enforcement if you see an impaired driver on the road.
To learn more about the If You Feel Different You Drive Different campaign, visit https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/safety-topics/drug-impaired-driving.
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