A new study from AAA shows almost 15 million people admit to driving while high on marijuana.
This can be dangerous because the study also found that those people are twice as likely to be involved in a crash.
Across the country, more states are legalizing marijuana. In Florida, marijuana is only legal for medical use.
It’s absolutely illegal to operate a car while high, even with a medical marijuana card.
The study shows millions of people willingly admitted to driving within an hour of smoking pot. Impaired effects of pot are usually experienced within four hours of using the drug.
The study also shows more drivers think texting or talking on your cellphone while driving is riskier than smoking weed and getting behind the wheel.
Some people said marijuana helps them focus and be more aware behind the wheel. However, police said it does the exact opposite and can be dangerous.
“It divides the person’s attention rather than helps them focus,” said Sgt. Alan Ma, Denver Police Dept. “Their perception and reaction times are delayed.”
Right now, a team of medical professionals in Colorado are studying the dangers of smoking and driving. They are measuring reaction times, hand eye coordination and short-term memory. Doctors said they will release their findings once the study is complete.
