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The Conversation
The Conversation
Andrew Yockey, Assistant Professor of Public Health, University of Mississippi

Drugged driving – including under the influence of cannabis and prescription drugs – is quietly becoming one of the most dangerous road hazards

Driving under the influence of drugs – be it prescription, legal or illegal – is just as deadly as alcohol. Darwin Brandis/iStock via Getty Images Plus

In October 2023, an unthinkable tragedy unfolded in Coleman, Wisconsin: An 8‑month‑old girl lost her life when a driver, impaired by cannabis, ran a stop sign and crashed into another vehicle. In February 2025, the driver pleaded guilty to negligent vehicular homicide and drugged driving with a minor passenger – and now faces up to 10 years behind bars.

These preventable circumstances highlight a stark reality: Drugged driving can be just as deadly as alcohol-impaired driving. Meanwhile, driving under the influence of drugs is becoming increasingly common across the United States.

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