6 April 2024
OVERBROOK (KSNT) – A Kansas police department is warning drivers to stay sober as a marijuana-themed holiday approaches.
The Overbrook Police Department (OPD) took to social media on April 5 to post a warning about the dangers of smoking marijuana before hitting the road. The department says it is joining forces with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to raise awareness ahead of the popular marijuana-themed holiday on Saturday, April 20.
Police say driving under the influence of marijuana, or other substances, is both illegal and deadly. If you feel high, police say you should avoid driving.
“It doesn’t matter what you call it, if you are impaired, do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle,” said Chief of Police Eric Carlson. “We are asking our community members to use good judgement, obey the law, and make safe choices when driving a vehicle. Your decisions don’t just affect you — they affect everyone on the road.”
Marijuana has been shown to slow a person’s reaction time, impair cognitive performance and make it harder to stay in one lane, according to the OPD. It says driving under the influence of drugs, legally obtained or not, poses a hazard to everyone driving on the road.
“Those who plan to use marijuana on 4/20 (or any day) should not drive. If you find yourself drug-impaired and stranded with your vehicle, give your keys to a sober driver who can safely drive you home or to a safe place. Remind your friends to never get in the vehicle with an impaired driver. If you have a friend who is about to drive while high, take the keys away and help them get home safely. Don’t worry about offending someone — they’ll thank you later.”
OPD statement excerpt
The OPD says if you see an impaired driver, call law enforcement. To learn more about the NHTSA’s efforts to stop impaired driving on the road this year, click here.
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