Wisconsin State Patrol encourages safe driving as many celebrate Easter and 4/20 holidays

DEFOREST, Wis. (WMTV) – The Wisconsin State Patrol had a busy Sunday, patrolling state roadways during a rainy holiday.

Due to the Easter holiday, many took to the roads to visit family and friends and travel across the state. Across Wisconsin, rainy conditions also made the streets extra busy.

“So far, it has been a rather busy day lately. Traffic is picking up, especially as people are going to and from their families’ houses. Right now, we’re expecting it to get a little bit busier, especially with the rain coming, which deals with other complications,” says Wisconsin State Trooper Cainan Robinson.

Trooper Robinson says the State Patrol expects an increase in driving activity during holiday seasons and wants to remind people to keep a proper distance from other cars, maintain speed limits, and wear their seatbelts. He also says it is important to make a plan before leaving for your destination, so you know how to arrive safely.

Wisconsinites may also choose to indulge in alcohol or drugs, with some celebrating an unofficial holiday of 4/20, where they may partake in recreational marijuana.

“Marijuana is still outlawed in the state of Wisconsin. It is a misdemeanor to possess any form of marijuana,” explains Robinson.

Robinson says while some may indulge, it is important not to drive under the influence, as just like alcohol, it can be dangerous to go behind the wheel.

“Marijuana can do a lot of the same things that alcohol can. It can slow your reaction time and lower your coordination,” says Robinson, “Since driving is one of those things that you need to have multiple points of contact on the wheel and have your focus solely designated on the road, you wouldn’t want to be under the influence of one of those substances while you’re operating a vehicle.

Wisconsin State Troopers and DOT are sharing that “Driving high is an OWI,” as the message is broadcast on their interstate message boards.

Robinson says the goal of that message is to correct the misconception that an OWI only relates to alcohol.

“Not just alcohol, but other drugs, whether it be marijuana or some other kind of illicit substance, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or LSD. You name it. If it can affect your ability to drive, don’t drive under the influence,” says Robinson.

Click here to download the WMTV15 News app or our WMTV15 First Alert weather app.

Copyright 2025 WMTV. All rights reserved.