Although marijuana is only legal for medical purposes in Florida, many use it recreationally. One way that it can be dangerous is if you use it and then drive.
Higher THC levels increase accident risk
Many people think marijuana is harmless. However, if you take it and then get behind the wheel, the chances of getting into a car accident are quite strong. Studies have found that the higher the level of THC, which is the component that results in getting high, the more likely it is to crash.
You run the risk of being arrested for driving under the influence if you take marijuana and then drive. The drug can impair your ability to safely control your vehicle. Your judgment dips, reaction time slows and your coordination declines. Your perception can even be distorted. Marijuana can also cause drowsiness, which can be deadly when you’re driving.
Test results for marijuana can be deceiving
If you have not touched marijuana at all in days or weeks and a police officer pulls you over, you might be surprised that you can still be arrested for DUI. This is because tests can detect it in your system for a long time since you last used.
How to prevent a potential DUI
If you avoid marijuana or anything else that could impair you, it should be safe to drive. If you use marijuana, don’t get behind the wheel afterward. Make sure you have a designated driver who agrees to stay sober to drive you instead.
Another option is to find an alternative ride home. This is easy as you can rely on a ridesharing service or call for a taxi to take you home.
