Is Legalized Marijuana Making America’s Highways Unsafe?

Marijuana legalization in some states has made headlines for several months. Now, some are wondering if stoned drivers are making highways unsafe.

Colorado is the most notable state on this issue since it was the ground-breaking state to first legalize marijuana use. Colorado has since faced much criticism and praise. Much like drunk drivers, drivers under the influence of marijuana can face serious penalties for testing above the limit.

In 2009 alone, the National Highway Safety Administration found that a third of fatally injured drivers with drug test results showed positive for drugs other than alcohol.

How high is too high?

The limit has been set at a blood level of 5 nanograms or more of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (referred to as THC) per milliliter.

Studies of marijuana have showed that it can cause dizziness and slowed reaction time. Drivers are also more likely to drift and swerve while they’re high.

What does Wichita think?

Are you more hesitant to take you family on a vacation in a state with legalized marijuana use? Do you believe that stoned drivers make the highways more unsafe? Let us know your thoughts by commenting in the box below!