Marijuana Use And Driving In Colorado

Even though every year millions of dollars are spent on ad campaigns to combat driving while under the influence of alcohol, marijuana use and driving is a subject that has received very little exposure in the media.

marijuana and driving

Marijuana Use And Driving

Marijuana Use And Driving Is Against The Law

The immediate efficacy of these ad campaigns is questionable while very little to nothing has been done on the issue of driving under the influence of marijuana.

Driving under the influence of marijuana is against the law because cannabis – just like alcohol – impairs your coordination, perception, reflexes, and judgment, which are essential qualities for the safe operation of a motor vehicle.

Marijuana Use And Driving Is Increasing Accidents

The popularity of cannabis across the world has increased the number of serious motor accidents and fatalities caused due to marijuana use and driving. In fact, there is a tight correlation between the use of marijuana while driving and the driving fatalities. Some of the sobering facts about the use of marijuana and driving include:

  • Marijuana can directly affect the central nervous system of the user and its reactions are vital for safe driving.
  • Driving under the influence of marijuana will increase your chances of being involved in a fatal car crash by at least 50%.
  • The number of fatalities on the road increases as the number of people who use marijuana for recreational purposes increases.

The Effects Of Marijuana Use And Driving

Marijuana can affect the central nervous system of the user in many ways. The side effects of using marijuana include:

  • Loss of coordination
  • Memory loss
  • Distorted perception that includes sounds, sights, touch, and time
  • Trouble solving problems and thinking
  • Severe paranoia
  • Slowed functioning

Considering the side effects of using cannabis, it isn’t surprising that marijuana use and driving could be deadly. The effects of marijuana use can last for more than 24 hours if you smoke it. The effects become even more serious when you ingest marijuana with alcohol.

Once a person ingests marijuana, the substance will make the individual delay his/her usual responses to sights and sounds. The substance can impede or impair your regulate hand and eye coordination. It also decreases your concentration levels as well as the ability to keep track of moving objects.

In fact, all these qualities are crucial to proper driving. A person impaired in any of these qualities is not fit to drive a motor vehicle.

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