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, aiming to prevent impaired driving as cannabis celebrations draw large crowds.
The initiative comes as THC impairment remains unpredictable and can pose risks even at low doses, according to transportation officials. The department encourages festival attendees and other cannabis consumers to plan ahead for a sober ride home by using public transit, a designated driver, or the $10 Uber credit available through April 21 with code RKFCDEQJUJ.
“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 also warned about lingering effects: “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,” Lingk said. “Plan ahead if you’re consuming and don’t drive. If you feel different, you drive different.”
Approximately one in three traffic deaths in Colorado involves 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 a booth offering educational materials about laws related to driving under influence and distributing $10 Uber ride credits after completing a quiz.
“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.”
According to the official website, CDOT works on integrated transportation solutions aimed at improving quality of life for residents across Colorado by delivering effective multi-modal systems that transport people safely while supporting environmental standards.
The agency oversees statewide infrastructure including interstates and highways while administering grants for aviation and transit projects as outlined online. Shoshana Lew serves as executive director according to CDOT.
