MADD Colorado joins the Colorado State Patrol, Uber, and RTD to Encourage the Public to Make Safe Choices
Denver – Ahead of this weekend’s 420 events, MADD is joining the Colorado State Patrol, Uber, and RTD to raise awareness about the dangers of marijuana impaired driving, and to encourage people to consider the many options they have to get home safely during the marijuana-focused month of April. There is a misconception that using marijuana does not increase crash risk, when in fact, its usage impacts virtually every skill needed to drive safely. Together these partner organizations are raising awareness about the dangers of marijuana-impaired driving with this campaign.
“The Colorado State Patrol is committed to your safety. If you choose to participate in 420 celebrations, please remember that there is no acceptable reason to drive under the influence.” said Colonel Matt Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “We will use all available resources to reduce the number of impaired drivers on Colorado roads.”
Since the legalization of marijuana in 2014, the Colorado State Patrol has been seeing cases of driving while under the influence of legal marijuana, and has issued over 3,000, marijuana-related driving citations during that time. State Patrol troopers will be out in full force over the 420 weekend to keep the roads safe and will be on the lookout for impaired drivers to raise awareness, educate, and enforce the laws.
MADD advocates for stronger laws and works tirelessly to support victims of impaired driving crashes. “Life is a precious gift. When it is taken away by the choices of others, you never really heal. You just try to embrace the new normal that you now have to live,” said Melanie Casey, a victim/survivor. “We all have choices in life. Make the right one and don’t drive high.”
Fran Lanzer, MADD Colorado Executive Director said, “We’re honored to partner with the Colorado State Patrol and I’m thankful for the all brave men and women who work to keep our roads safe. With light rail, buses, taxis, and rideshare services like Uber, there’s never an excuse to drive high. If you’re celebrating this weekend, plan ahead and get home safe.”
Uber and MADD are working toward a world where a safe ride is always within reach. “Marijuana-impaired driving is 100% preventable. By providing people with safe ride options, we believe we are empowering people to make better, safer choices,” said Uber Safety Spokesperson Tracey Breeden. “With our technology, we want to help everyone have a safe 420 week.”
“The Regional Transportation District’s (RTD) commitment to safety applies to the services that we provide and the broader community as well. I encourage anyone participating in 420 celebrations to make the responsible decision and use public transportation to get around,” said RTD General Manager and CEO David A. Genova. “With bus, light rail, and commuter rail service spanning eight counties, there are plenty of safe and affordable transportation options available to the community.”