The Journal of the American College of Surgeons published a study by Wright State University that found higher amounts of THC levels in victims resulting from fatal car wrecks
The study said that more than 40% of victims involved in deadly car accidents over the last 6 years had higher doses of THC in their blood well beyond some of the state’s legal limits.
“A growing number of marijuana users are driving while high, and it’s costing them their lives,” said the research.
Doctors involved in putting together the data said THC slows reaction time, clouds judgment, and dulls coordination — and those few seconds of delay can be the difference between a near-miss and a fatal crash.
Other doctors noted that most of the people involved in the car wrecks most likely consumed marijuana at some time close to driving. “This isn’t about residual use; it’s about recent consumption,” one doctor said.
Results from the study showed what has been generally discussed among those in the health community who oppose legalizing marijuana.
And that is how if a driver is high from increase levels of THC, it slows down their reaction time, clouds judgment and dulls coordination and those few seconds of cloud the mindset that could be the difference between a near-miss and a fatal crash. Doctors also point out that even individuals who may have a high tolerance to THC will still show slower reflexes, less reliable judgment and narrower focus.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety said its research shows that legalizing recreational marijuana has become a rising factor in thousands of car accidents annually, and rates of cannabis-involved crashes have generally risen following legalization in various states. The increase is particularly noticeable in fatal crashes.
