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Development and Validation of Messaging to Deter Cannabis Impaired Driving
For more than 75 years, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has carried out various work to fulfill its mission of preventing traffic deaths and injuries by conducting research into their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. The work presented in this technical report, to examine cannabis users’ thoughts and reasons for driving under the influence of cannabis and develop public messages to discourage users from impaired driving, is the latest example of our organization’s commitment to improve traffic safety, As more states consider legalization of cannabis for recreational and medical purposes, cannabis impaired driving has become a major traffic safety concern. Research has shown that some people who consume cannabis are unaware of how or to what extent it may impact their ability to drive safely. There is an urgent need to correct public misperceptions about cannabis use and driving. This study interviewed cannabis users to gain a better understanding of attitudes, perceptions, and reasons for driving under the influence of cannabis. Using the results of these discussions, public health messages aimed at deterring cannabis impaired driving were developed. Information presented in this report should be a useful resource for traffic safety advocates and practitioners.
Read the full study here.