Dangers Of Marijuana Uncertain In Growing Industry

With the marijuana industry still in its infancy in the U.S., many are worried that not enough is known about its effects and preventative measures are lagging behind the growing breadth of THC infused products. However, a new study showing that marijuana may be a risk on the road has prompted some to call for stricter regulations regarding the drug's consumption.

Limits Questioned

While there is a clear limit of alcohol that people can ingest before driving a car, that of marijuana is a bit more uncertain. In Washington and Colorado, marijuana users are able to have 5 ug/L of TCH in their system if they are operating a vehicle. However, a new study shows that such limits may not be enough.

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A Dangerous Combination

However, the study also showed that drivers under the influence of both alcohol and marijuana, even at the legal limits of both, were the most dangerous. This is concerning, as many marijuana users consume the drug after having one or two drinks.

Driving While High Is On The Rise

The study is likely to give lawmakers something to consider when it comes to cracking down on marijuana regulation. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration survey showed that weekend nighttime drivers with THC in their system have increased dramatically since 2007, from 8.6 percent to 12.6 percent.

Many believe that rise is directly attributed to the growing popularity of marijuana use as the drug is legalized in more and more states.