The Colorado Department of Transportation announced on Apr. 17 that it is partnering with AAA Colorado to provide discounted Uber ride credits during Denver’s Mile High 420 Festival, urging cannabis users to plan ahead for a sober ride home.
The initiative comes as large crowds are expected at the festival, raising concerns about impaired driving. The department said THC impairment can be unpredictable and dangerous even at low doses, making it unsafe to drive after consuming cannabis.
To encourage safe transportation choices, Coloradans can use an Uber discount code or visit a designated link for a $10 ride credit through April 21. CDOT also recommends public transportation or using a designated driver as alternatives. “Driving under the influence of any form of cannabis impairs the judgment and motor skills necessary to drive safely,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “And, if you choose to combine THC with alcohol, this amplifies the risk you create on the roadways. Even if you don’t feel high, make the smart choice and use a rideshare, take public transit or call a sober friend. Law enforcement doesn’t issue warnings to impaired drivers. It’s not worth the risk to get behind the wheel after consuming cannabis.” CDOT Director of Transportation Safety and Risk Management Darrell Lingk added: “Whether you’re celebrating at the Mile High 420 Festival in Denver, heading up to Red Amphitheater or just spending time at a friend’s house this 420, remember, the impairing effects of THC can last eight hours or longer… Plan ahead if you’re consuming and don’t drive. If you feel different, you drive different.”
According to CDOT data cited in its announcement, about one-third of traffic deaths in Colorado involve an impaired driver; so far in 2024 there have been 45 fatalities involving an at-fault driver suspected of cannabis impairment.
CDOT will be present at Civic Center Park during this year’s festival with representatives hosting educational activities about laws and dangers related to driving high; attendees who visit their booth will receive an additional $10 Uber credit toward their ride home.
“AAA is proud to partner with CDOT to keep cannabis consumers safe during this year’s 420 events,” said AAA Regional Director Skyler McKinley. “Your freedom, driver’s license and safety aren’t worth the risk of driving high. Make the right call if you’re celebrating and plan a sober ride home.”
The Colorado Department of Transportation works statewide on integrated transportation solutions designed to improve quality of life for residents according to its official website. The agency aims for effective multi-modal systems that transport people and goods while maintaining environmental standards according to its official website. Shoshana Lew serves as executive director according to its official website, overseeing infrastructure including highways across Colorado as outlined on its official site. The department builds highways and administers grants for aviation and transit according to its official website, focusing broadly on highway maintenance along with support for other modes like aviation as per its official site.
