BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — In preparation for celebrating one of the most popular drinking holidays in the country, AAA is urging partygoers to ensure they have a sober ride home, whether they are consuming alcohol or marijuana.

“Every holiday, it’s very important to celebrate responsibly,” said Gianella Ghiglino, a spokesperson for AAA. “So that means, if you are going to be under the influence of any substance, you are using a ride share service, you do have a designated driver, or that you are taking public transportation.”

Ghiglino said these measures are life-saving.

According to AAA’s research, 84.8% of people admit to driving on the same day they consume marijuana, with 53% reporting they use cannabis an hour or less before driving.

Ghiglino noted that many people underestimate the dangers of driving under the influence of cannabis due to its association with health and wellness benefits.

“Unfortunately, there isn’t that same stigma with driving under the influence of cannabis. And driving under the influence of cannabis is very dangerous,” she said. “It can also cause fatigue and sleepiness, brain fog changes in visual or auditory perception, and also impaired body movements.”

She cautioned against the misconception that a high tolerance for cannabis equates to safe driving. “It’s the equivalent of being a functioning alcoholic. You’re just because you have you’re used to doing it, and you think it doesn’t affect you, doesn’t mean that it doesn’t so it absolutely affects you,” Ghiglino said. “You can do it and use it for all those medical reasons and use it for relaxation, but that doesn’t mean that you are equipped to drive that under the influence of cannabis.”

Police departments across the county are increasing patrols during the holiday.

The Delano Police Department issued a public warning similar to AAA’s, reminding residents that impaired driving is not limited to alcohol but also includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and cannabis products.