Report: Examination of Cannabis Users’ Perceptions and Self-Reported Behaviors to Inform Messaging to Deter Impaired Driving
| Type: Published Report |
| Title: Examination of Cannabis Users’ Perceptions and Self-Reported Behaviors to Inform Messaging to Deter Impaired Driving |
| Authors: Hill, L.L., Marcotte, T. D., Ageze, D. & Hacker, S. D. |
| Year: 2025 |
| Source: AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety |
| Citation: Hill, L.L., Marcotte, T. D., Ageze, D. & Hacker, S. D. (2025). Examination of Cannabis Users’ Perceptions and Self-Reported Behaviors to Inform Messaging to Deter Impaired Driving (Technical Report). Washington, D.C.: AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. |
Background:
Cannabis use surpassed alcohol in the U.S. in 2022, and driving under its influence increases crash risk. However, effective deterrent strategies remain limited. Many users misperceive cannabis as less impairing than alcohol and believe police cannot detect impairment. This study interviewed experts (n=19) and surveyed 2,800 cannabis users across eight states to assess driving behaviors and test targeted messaging, informing strategies to reduce cannabis-impaired driving.
Results:
Experts recommended addressing misconceptions (e.g., cannabis is less risky than alcohol), using non-stereotypical messaging, and collaborating with the cannabis industry. Among 2,000 surveyed users, 84.8% drove the same day as use, with 53% driving within an hour. Only 29% believed police could detect impairment. The most effective messages emphasized impaired reaction time and legal consequences. Findings support targeted, fact-based interventions to deter cannabis-impaired driving.
| 3 messages were well received and scored best across most parameters: |
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1. “Driving high is driving Impaired— Find a safe ride home” |
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2. “If you feel different, you drive different—Drive High. Get a DUI” |
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3. “THC slows reaction time, distorts perception, and increases the risk of a car crash—Don’t Drive High.” |
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Citation: Hill, L.L., Marcotte, T. D., Ageze, D. & Hacker, S. D. (2025). Examination of Cannabis Users’ Perceptions and Self-Reported Behaviors to Inform Messaging to Deter Impaired Driving (Technical Report). Washington, D.C.: AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.