Safety officials plan enhanced enforcement on impaired driving for 4/20 weekend

Saturday, April 20, marks the unofficial marijuana "holiday," and there will likely be an increase in marijuana use. (Courtesy photo)

This weekend, the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety is collaborating with its state, county, and local law enforcement partners to combat impaired driving as a result of marijuana usage.

Saturday, April 20, marks the unofficial marijuana "holiday," and there will likely be an increase in marijuana use.

Safety officials from the state are reminding New Hampshire residents and visitors that impaired driving is illegal, dangerous and potentially deadly.

"As always, we are urging drivers to ensure they are not impaired when getting behind the wheel," said New Hampshire Department of Safety Assistant Commissioner Eddie Edwards. "Your decisions don't just affect you. They affect everyone else on the road, too."

• In 2022, there were 146 people killed in crashes on New Hampshire roads. Of those crashes, 73% percent were alcohol and/or drug-related.
• From 2016-2022, 854 people died in crashes in New Hampshire. Of those 854 people, 515 (60%) were victims of an alcohol and/or drug-related crash.
• From 2016-2022, 362 of 1158 drivers involved in deadly crashes on New Hampshire roads tested positive for drugs.

Drivers who operate a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana will be arrested for driving under the influence, per New Hampshire law. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, marijuana can slow reaction times, impair cognitive performance and make it more difficult for drivers to keep a steady position in their lane. Whether the drug is legally obtained or not, drug-impaired driving poses a threat to everyone on the road.

There are many options to help impaired drivers get home safely. If available, use your community's public transportation, rideshare services or sober ride program. If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact 911.