Are You A Victim of Someone Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana?

The notion of driving under the influence is often seen in an alcoholic context where reckless drivers are found to be drunk or intoxicated. However, a DUI can also refer to someone under the influence of drugs, most commonly marijuana.

A 2022 study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that over 54% of injured drivers in car crashes had drugs or alcohol in their bloodstream, with the most prominent substance being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is found in marijuana.

Have you been the victim of injury by a driver under the influence of marijuana? Learn more about the effects of cannabis on drivers and call our car accident attorneys to represent you.

Dealing with Marijuana-Influenced DUI Accidents

As with any influential substance, cannabis can shift how the body operates and reacts to situations. One response that people may have while under the influence of marijuana is feeling overly anxious.

Due to the “high” that cannabis gives to the body, a driver might not be as mindful of traffic rules, such as slowing down for a stop sign or adjusting their speed limit. The influence of marijuana can also distort the perception of time and space, and cause someone to forget simple safety skills.

Penalties for Marijuana DUIs

Penalties regarding driving under the influence of marijuana or any substance depend on the number of times an individual has committed a criminal offense (first vs. second vs. third time). Some examples of penalties one may face include:

• Higher insurance rates
• Fines
• Criminal record
• Probation
• Imprisonment

A driver’s decision to partake in cannabis usage while on the road puts themselves and others at risk. Driving under the influence of marijuana in West Virginia is illegal and penalized by the law, so when a person is injured in this sort of wreck, it is essential to consult a lawyer.

Trust Our Team When You Are the Victim of Someone Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana

At Jan Dils, our dedicated Personal Injury attorneys can guide you through the legal challenges that occur when you are hurt in a cannabis-fueled crash. We offer free consultations to those looking for legal support.

If we do not recover for you, you do not owe anything. We only charge a fee for our services if we obtain a recovery for you, which is called a contingency. Do not wait to file your claim after being hurt by a driver under the influence of marijuana. Contact us today to get started.