Everyone knows that “buzzed driving” is drunk driving, but what about driving high? The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Watch UR BAC team is spreading the word that it is illegal to drive while impaired by any substance, including drugs.

In 2020, 56 percent of drivers involved in serious injury and fatal crashes tested positive for at least one drug. This is why it is so important to spread this life-saving message: Drive High. Get a DWI. It does not matter what term is used—high, buzzed, stoned, wasted, or drunk—no one should get behind the wheel impaired. Think being high will not affect a person’s driving? That is 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. Marijuana is not the only drug that will cause this kind of impairment. Multiple other illegal drugs can cause slowed reaction time, drowsiness, blurred vision, poor balance, and other deficiencies, which will impact a driver from being able to safely operate a vehicle.

If selected to be a designated driver, stick to the plan: Do not use drugs (legally or illegally obtained). For all drivers, the best defense against impaired drivers on the road is their seatbelt. Wear it on every trip, and make sure all passengers are also buckled up.

Drug-impaired driving is a big problem. It is deadly, illegal, and a rising challenge for law enforcement. Although a lot of focus for impaired driving is centered around holidays, make no mistake, it happens every day on Texas roadways. If any type of drug is being taken, whether it is prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal, pass the keys to a sober friend. Remember: A DWI applies to more than just alcohol. No matter what kind of drug has been used, if someone feels different it will make them drive different.

Remember these safety tips and spread the message to friends and family members:

• If using an impairing substance (such as marijuana), do not drive. Passengers should never ride with an impaired driver. If a driver appears that they may be impaired, do not get in the car with them.
• If planning to use drugs, plan ahead for a sober driver to safely drive to the destination. Like drunk driving, it is essential that drug-impaired drivers refrain from driving a vehicle. It is never OK 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.
• Have a friend who is about to drive while impaired by drugs? Take the keys away and arrange to get them home safely. Do not worry about offending someone—they will be thankful later.
• If available, use the community’s sober ride program.
• If an impaired driver is suspected on the road, call 911 immediately when it is safe to do so.