As more states legalize marijuana, either for medical purposes or recreational usage, more and more studies are coming out looking at the effects of driving while stoned. Some research suggests that driving under the influence of marijuana can nearly double the risk of a driver getting into a car accident. But prosecuting stoned drivers is difficult since, unlike alcohol, there is no specific threshold that can measure how much is too much, or how marijuana may affect a driver.

Be Wary When Driving After Using Marijuana

Even in states where marijuana is illegal, many drivers will still use the substance and get behind the wheel of the car. Some claim that driving stoned enhances their ability to focus on the road and reduces other distractions, but a Canadian survey investigated the dangers of marijuana use on drivers and found that driving under the influence of marijuana is extremely dangerous.

The study found that:

• Those that have smoked within a few hours of driving are nearly twice as likely as sober drivers to be involved in an accident
• 6.8 % of drivers that were involved in accidents were found with the main chemical of marijuana, THC, in their system
• Reaction time, spatial sense, and perception are all affected by marijuana
• Some people may not recognize when they are stoned
• The effects of marijuana can last 3 to 4 hours

Even though there is no specific test that an officer can give that can accurately determine how much marijuana a person has in their system, many are trained to detect the signs of being stoned. An officer that feels as though a driver has used marijuana before driving can legally arrest that driver.

If you or a loved one have been arrested on suspicion of marijuana usage, contact an experienced DUI defense attorney right away. Ensuring that you do not face significant penalties means that you must act quickly with legal counsel by your side. Check the directory to find a DUI attorney in your area and contact their firm today!