More than half of marijuana users say they consume it shortly before driving, a AAA study found.

A much higher percentage – 85% – say they drive the same day as using the drug. The more alarming statistic, though, is the 53% who drive within an hour or less of partaking pot.

The poll also dug into users’ mindset around pot use and driving, finding that half think they either drive the same as when they’re sober or even a "little better" – 15%, or unbelievably, “much better” – 19%.

To gauge pot users’ receptiveness to driving-safety campaigns, the poll asked about their readiness to believe pot industry ads about using and driving. Many pot users appear to be ready to trust such messages: 39% would accept them as valid.

“Effective messaging about cannabis-impaired driving needs to include credible voices, real-world scenarios, and respectful language,” said AAA Director of Traffic Safety Advocacy Jake Nelson in a press release on the survey.

“Individuals who consume cannabis come from all walks of life and that should be reflected in the messaging.” 

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