Team DUI, Pennsylvania DUI Association
We know buzzed driving is drunk driving, but what about driving high? The U.S. Department of
Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is spreading the
word that it’s illegal to drive while impaired by any substance, including drugs. This Fourth of
July, state and local law enforcement in Indiana County are participating in the If You Feel
Different, You Drive Different. Drive High, Get a DUI. campaign.
In 2019, 49% of drivers who were killed in crashes and were tested for drugs, tested positive.
This is why it’s so important we spread this lifesaving message: If You Feel Different, You
Drive Different. Drive High, Get a DUI. It doesn’t matter what term you use—high, buzzed,
stoned, wasted, or drunk—no one should get behind the wheel impaired. Think being high
won’t affect your driving? You’re wrong. It has been proven that marijuana can slow reaction
times, impair cognitive performance, and make it more difficult for drivers to keep a steady
position in their lane.
If you’re a designated driver, stick to the plan: don’t use drugs (legally or illegally obtained).
For all drivers, your best defense against impaired drivers on the road is your seat belt. Wear
it on every trip, and make sure your passengers do, too.
“Drug-impaired driving is a big problem. It is deadly, illegal, and a rising challenge for law
enforcement,” said C. Stephen Erni, Executive Director, PA DUI Association. “Drug-impaired
driving is a big problem. It is deadly, illegal, and a rising challenge for law enforcement,” said
DA Robert F. Manzi, Jr. “This July 4th, we are reminding people to plan ahead and designate
a sober driver before the partying starts. If you are taking any type of drug — prescription,
over the counter, or illegal — pass your keys to a sober friend. Remember: you can get a DUI
for more than just alcohol. If You Feel Different, You Drive Different. Drive High, Get a DUI.”
Have a Safe Independence Day
Remember these safety tips as you prepare for the holiday, and spread the message to your
friends and family members:
• If you have used an impairing substance such as marijuana, do not drive. Passengers
should never ride with an impaired driver. If you think a driver may be impaired, do
not get in the car.
• If you are planning to use drugs, plan ahead for a sober driver to safely drive you to
your destination. Like drunk driving, it is essential that drug-impaired drivers refrain
from driving a vehicle. It is never okay to drive while impaired by any substance.
• Even over-the-counter and prescription medications can have impairing effects. Take
caution before driving after using any medication.
• Do you have a friend who is about to drive while impaired by drugs? Take the keys
away and arrange to get them home safely. Don’t worry about offending someone —
they’ll thank you later.
• If available, use your community’s sober ride program such as Uber and Lyft.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact 911.
Please join us in sharing the lifesaving message, If You Feel Different, You Drive Different.
Drive High, Get a DUI. For more information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drugimpaired-driving.
Author: Amaury Abreu
