Drunk driving remains a menace to society. According to the the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 10,000 people die in alcohol-related crashes every year.

Less on the minds of citizens is the problem of motorists under the influence of narcotics. Drug addicts are equally capable of causing highway tragedies as alcoholics.

Marijuana

Cannabis usage has skyrocketed in recent years. Part of the reason is its popularity has led to decriminalization in specific states. Some have even opted for full-on legalization. However, THC slows reaction time. It also impairs the ability to judge time and distance. Unsurprisingly, the number of car crashes has jumped dramatically in recent years.

Stimulants

America is dealing with a critical methamphetamine epidemic. Meth causes users to become more inclined toward taking risks. The result is often aggressive driving and reckless behavior. Other popular drugs fall in the same category and have similar effects. Cocaine, Adderall, and MDMA (known as ecstasy or Molly) are common examples and obtainable on the black market.

Hallucinogens

People have been taking LSD for decades. But these exotic substances trigger hallucinations, an obvious impediment to roadside safety. Imagine traveling down the highway and seeing an obstacle that does not exist. Psilocybin, often referred to as magic mushrooms, is a more natural alternative. Nonetheless, its potency remains proportionate. Other mind-benders include PCP, DMT and ketamine.

When using drugs increases in social acceptability, car wrecks become more common. A public service campaign equal to the one discouraging drunk driving remains necessary. It is one way of educating the nation about the dangers of getting behind the wheel in an altered state.