With the legalization of cannabis in some states, people wonder if driving while high is legal. The answer is a big “NO” – you can still get a DUI for driving high. In fact, drugged driving is on the rise, and studies have shown that THC can impair your ability to drive safely. So if you’re planning on indulging in a little herb, be sure to find a safe way home.
It’s illegal in all 50 states
Even though cannabis has become increasingly legalized, states have been slow to make exceptions for driving under the influence. With an increasing number of Americans using marijuana for recreational and medicinal purposes, it’s important to remember that driving while high is not only illegal in all 50 states, but it also carries with it potentially serious consequences. Driving under the influence of weed can lead to a dangerously impaired judgment or reaction time which can cause car accidents and potentially irreversible harm. Depending on the state you’re in, if you’re caught driving under the influence of marijuana – even if there is not an accident – you may still face penalties like fines, community service, license suspension, or even imprisonment.
It can impair your ability to drive safely
People can really underestimate driving under the influence, especially while stoned. THC affects cognitive skills like memory, judgment, and coordination which are vital for being a safe driver. Studies have shown that driving under the influence of marijuana can be just as dangerous as driving drunk. Not only is it illegal to operate a vehicle while intoxicated on cannabis, but you’re also putting your life and the lives of others at risk when you get behind the wheel after consuming marijuana. Know the potential consequences before you make any wrong decisions behind the wheel.
Consequences
Driving stoned is a huge gamble that could cost you more than just your freedom. Depending on where you are, it’s illegal to be driving with any amount of THC in your system – anything over the limit, and you can face severe consequences in the form of fines and even jail time. You may think that it’s not as dangerous as alcohol, but it’s actually just as likely to get you into a lot of trouble. It’’s best to stay off the roads or keep your smoking until after you get home, so you don’t risk being pulled over for a DUI. It’s important to remember that if you are convicted of a DUI, you could be subject to hefty fines, time in jail, and have your driver’s license revoked. The harsh punishments associated with endangering your life and the lives of others while driving should not be taken lightly. While getting behind the wheel while under the influence may at first seem convenient, it’s important to understand that it will always be better in the long run to make safer and more responsible choices.
Just don’t do it
Regardless of whether a drug is legal or illegal, it does not make it safe to drive under its influence. Alcohol and marijuana have different effects on people, but no matter what the substance, operating a car after consuming either of them can have serious repercussions and risk deadly consequences. So whether you are a recreational user, medical user, or even if you need to run an errand after smoking up, be smart and get someone else to drive for you.
