The Ad Council and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have rolled out a nationwide public‑service campaign tackling a dangerous misconception: that driving after using marijuana somehow makes you a better driver.
The initiative, titled “Tell That to Them,” features a chilling 60‑second ad. In the spot, a man confidently declares: “I actually drive better when I’m high. If anything, I’m more careful, more chill, more relaxed.” Moments later, reality intervenes — the driver collides head‑on with another vehicle, tragically killing a child. The campaign notes the story is inspired by real events.
Jonathan Morrison, Administrator of NHTSA, stressed that many people — particularly younger men — wrongly believe marijuana either doesn’t impair driving or improves it. “That couldn’t be further from the truth,” Morrison said, emphasizing that marijuana affects reaction time, coordination, and judgment — all critical for safe driving.
The campaign represents a notable shift in federal messaging around cannabis and driving. While previous efforts took a more measured, educational approach, “Tell That to Them” opts for a blunt, emotionally charged tone. Its goal is to confront the flawed logic and self-justifications that lead people to drive after consuming marijuana.
Ads will air across television, digital channels, and social media, targeting young adults — particularly men aged 18 to 34 — who research shows are most likely to drive under the influence of cannabis.
The takeaway is clear: impairment is impairment. Whether caused by alcohol or marijuana, if you “feel different,” you drive different — and that can be deadly.
Dabbin-Dad Newsroom
