The Government of Canada’s “Don’t Drive High” campaign sends a clear message during National Impaired Driving Prevention Week: driving under the influence of drugs is dangerous, illegal, and entirely preventable. The campaign stresses that drugs can impair reaction times and focus, making it harder to make the split-second decisions needed to avoid a crash. The legal consequences are equally serious, with drug-impaired driving carrying the risk of fines, license suspension, jail time, and a criminal record.

Through a mix of direct messaging and creative video storytelling, the campaign shows how distraction and impairment can cloud judgment. One video uses surreal, humorous visuals – a person high on cannabis becoming fixated on a dancing hamburger – to illustrate how altered perception can interfere with safe decision-making. Just before the character considers driving, they opt for a safer alternative and order delivery instead, reinforcing the message that “you always have other options.”

The campaign also offers practical guidance on planning ahead to avoid impaired driving. Suggestions include using a designated driver, calling a friend, taking a cab or rideshare, or using public transit. By highlighting both the human and legal costs of drug-impaired driving, alongside simple prevention steps, “Don’t Drive High” makes it clear that the safest and smartest choice is never to get behind the wheel while under the influence.

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