U.S. News: Drugged driving a growing threat

The dangers of drugged driving are overtaking drunk driving, according to a study by a team of researchers from UC’s School of Human Services: Andrew Yockey, doctoral student and co-authors Keith King and Rebecca Vidourek, both professors in UC's College of Education, Criminal Justice and Human Services.  

With lawful marijuana use rising in the United States, the concerns about road safety are multi-faceted, says the study which was cited in U.S. News & World Report’s Health News section and other prominent publications to include ConsumerAffairs and WebMD.  

"There is serious concern as to how legalization will affect driving behaviors among adults," says King who is the director of the UC Center for Prevention Science. Vidourek is the co-director

For the study, the researchers used the most recent sample data from the 2016 to 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, but current estimates are following the upward trend.

The team calls for more research to evaluate the impact of legalization; and also emphasized education at an early age and identifying culturally relevant prevention strategies.

Read more:  

• U.S. News: Drugged Driving a Growing Threat on America's Roads
• ConsumerAffairs: Drugged driving is becoming potentially more dangerous than drunk driving, study finds 
• WebMD: Drugged Driving a Growing Threat on U.S. Roads

Featured image at top: Pierce/Unsplash.