Marijuana DUI: What You Need to Know

As marijuana gains wider acceptance across the U.S., everyone needs to remember that driving under its influence is both illegal and dangerous. To address this pressing concern, the respected NST law firm—Nahon, Saharovich, and Trotzick—has asked us to share their comprehensive guide to educate the public on the risks of driving while impaired by marijuana.

This resource embodies what we see as NST's dedication to promoting public safety, and mental health, by extension. After communicating with NST and reviewing the guide, we were impressed by its clarity and depth. It tackles common misconceptions about marijuana use, particularly its impact on mental health and public safety.

The guide explains how marijuana impairs both physical and cognitive functions. Slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and drowsiness are just a few of the risks that make driving high so dangerous. These hazards can have serious, even fatal, consequences.

One of the guide’s standout features is its explanation of why determining marijuana intoxication is so complex. Unlike alcohol, which has measurable blood alcohol content levels, marijuana's effects vary based on factors like strain and method of consumption. This makes it challenging to predict when it’s safe to drive, as THC can linger in the body for extended periods.

NST’s guide also provides insights into state laws, testing methods, and the broader implications of impaired driving. Although Maryland was not listed in that resource, we found that In Maryland, like many other states, it’s still illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana, even though cannabis is legal for adults. Police may rely on field sobriety tests, drug recognition experts, observed behavior, and sometimes blood tests to decide if someone is impaired, since there’s no set THC limit like with alcohol. Penalties are serious: a first offense can mean up to a year in jail, $1,000 in fines, license suspension, and mandatory education, with harsher punishments for repeat offenses. Refusing a blood test can cause an automatic license suspension, and it’s also illegal to smoke or vape cannabis in a vehicle.

So, whether you use marijuana recreationally or for medical reasons, this resource offers invaluable advice to help you stay safe and make informed decisions.

We encourage everyone to read this guide and learn more about driving under the influence of marijuana, click here: [Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana].

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About the Joy of Life Clinic

The Joy of Life Clinic offers administrative mental health services and treatments and customizes our services to meet your needs or your loved ones' specific needs. The clinicians will pinpoint current challenges in your first meeting and strategize the best solutions. We can also provide psychological evaluations for court or other hearing for those facing DUI and other charges.

Visit us today!

Mercy Nwankama, CRNP-PMH, MSN
The Joy of Life Clinic

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