The Legalization of Marijuana and DUI’s

Here in California there has been an on-going debate about the legalization of marijuana.  Recently 56 percent of voters approved of Proposition 215 which legalizes marijuana cultivation, possession and use for medical reasons, with no prescription required.

Currently in the state of California it is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana.  One particular concern for people is the possibility of an increase of DUI’s if people are allowed to smoke marijuana whenever and wherever they want. Will there be any ramifications if marijuana is legalized?

However, one thing we should probably be thinking about first is whether or not marijuana does affect a person’s driving abilities.  According to the The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), there has been a great deal of research done exploring the impact of marijuana on psychomotor skills and actual driving performance.  What has been found is that marijuana has a measurable, yet relatively mild effect on psychomotor skills, and it does not appear to play a significant role in car accidents, particularly when compared to alcohol.

This is not to say, however, that it’s ok to smoke marijuana and drive.  Doing anything that has even a small chance of affecting your driving abilities should be considered a no-no.

If you’ve been accused of driving under the influence of marijuana, contact an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer to help you with your case.

Photo Credit: R0bz