RICHMOND — The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) has released the results of its second statewide impaired driving survey as part of National Impaired Driving Prevention Month.

CCA said the survey, conducted in August and September, builds on its first survey in 2022 and captures Virginians’ attitudes and behaviors regarding cannabis use and driving.

Key Findings 

• 30% of Virginia drivers believe those who consume marijuana are usually safer drivers. 
• 46% of marijuana users don’t always have a plan for a sober ride. 
• 22% of Virginia drivers admit to driving high a few times a year or more. 
• 34% of Virginia drivers have ridden as a passenger with a driver under the influence of marijuana. 

According to the authority, these numbers remain unchanged or increased from 2022, and highlight the continued need for awareness and education. 

The survey also revealed positive trends: 

• 29% of drivers believe they’re certainly or very likely to be pulled over for driving under the influence of marijuana, compared to 24% in 2022. 

• 47% of respondents who used marijuana in the past three months always plan for a sober ride home, up from 42% in 2022. 

“This survey shows that while we’ve made some progress, there’s still considerable work to do,” said Jeremy Preiss, Acting Head and Chief Officer of Regulatory, Policy, and External Affairs. “As we observe National Impaired Driving Prevention Month this December and the upcoming holidays, let’s remember — planning for a sober ride saves lives. Whether it’s calling a rideshare or asking a sober friend to drive, a little planning can be a big win for safety on the road.” 

The authority cautions that driving under the influence of marijuana is dangerous and illegal in Virginia, and adds it’s also against the law to use cannabis while driving or as a passenger in a vehicle. Breaking these laws can lead to fines, loss of a driver’s license, and jail time. 

The CCA is encouraging all Virginians to help prevent impaired driving this holiday season. Those planning to get high should plan for a sober ride first by calling a rideshare, designating a sober driver, or using public transportation. 

Residents can take it a step further by signing a pledge to never drive high at cca.virginia.gov/safedriving.

To view more in-depth results and analysis of the survey, visit the CCA’s website.