Can you smoke and Drive?
Cannabis has been seen in a new light in recent years. No longer being referred to as “the Devil’s lettuce”, the herb is now seen as a beneficial and harmless substance to consume. With recreational cannabis legal in Arizona, it’s available to any common person over the age of 21 (with a valid ID). While cannabis is not dangerous to consume, it can still be dangerous if paired with certain activities. The most controversial argument against legal cannabis is the worry of consumption while operating vehicles. So, here’s the big question:
Does cannabis impair driving?
Cannabis, and cannabis-based products can contain several cannabinoids that have different effects within the body. The two most popular cannabinoids are THC and CBD.
THC is the most common of these cannabinoids, and the only truly psychoactive cannabinoid. Under the influence of THC, driving a vehicle can be dangerous – even for an experienced consumer. Psychoactive cannabinoids introduced to the brain can alter thought perception and motor function, leaving a potential driver not in the proper state of mind to operate a vehicle.
CBD is the second most common cannabinoid a cannabis consumer may be interested in. CBD has no psychoactive effects that it offers to the human body. CBD is often used for pain relief, or to calm anxiety, it will not leave a consumer feeling “high”.
Based on studies by the CDC and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, cannabis has been shown to impact drivers motor coordination and cognitive abilities. Further studies of cannabinoids are needed to determine levels of impairment and how the body responds to the use of THC or CBD and operating vehicles or any other heavy equipment.
Conclusion
Overall, consuming cannabis and driving is something that is frowned upon. It is a combination of activities that can be dangerous to oneself and others – also illegal. There is no tolerance for driving under the influence. Therefore, it is always important to have a good understanding of what cannabinoids are in the cannabis products being consumed, as well as what they may do to you personally.
Always air on the side of caution – it’s never worth the risk.
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