The Arlington Police Department and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service "Watch UR BAC" program have joined together to spread an important safety message to the public about intoxication and drug abuse. The Watch UR BAC program focuses on education and prevention of all impaired driving issues whether from alcohol or other drugs.
Drug-impaired driving is an increasingly critical issue for cities and states. In 2013, 40% of fatally injured drivers with a known test result were found to have drugs in their system according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Marijuana use has been found to cause impairment of psychomotor skills and diminish cognitive functions such as operating a motor vehicle.
The Arlington Police Department and the Watch UR BAC program reminds citizens:
- Avoid driving if there is any chance a prescription drug causes impairment. Many prescriptions come with the warning to not drive or operate heavy machinery when taking the medication.
- Never let friends drive impaired. Arrange a safe way for them to get home.
- Don't combine alcohol and drugs; this could cause an increase in impairment. The use of alcohol and marijuana together produces significantly higher impairments.
- Always buckle up. It's still your best defense against impaired drivers.
- Call 9-1-1 to report impaired drivers.
For more information on the WATCH UR BAC program, please go to: http://watchurbac.tamu.edu/. Watch UR BAC is funded by the Texas Department of Transportation.
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