Marijuana is legal, but driving high can be deadly
Washington is among the many states that have legalized marijuana for recreational use. However, the Evergreen State's roads are buzzing with a growing danger: teens driving under the influence. While marijuana may be legal in Washington State, irresponsible can lead to devastating car accidents. Marijuana use impairs the skills needed for safe driving, including motor coordination, reaction time, and judgment of time and distance.
Research from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission shows an increase in drivers involved in fatal crashes who tested positive for marijuana within five years of legalization. The proportion of drivers testing positive for THC in fatal crashes nearly doubled compared to pre-legalization levels, with 21% of drivers in 2017 testing positive.
What can we learn from a recent tragedy?
Some teen drivers already lack the necessary experience to navigate Washington's roads safely. On top of that, some teens engage in risky behavior behind the wheel, often due to peer pressure. When marijuana is thrown into the mix, it's a recipe for disaster. In 2022 alone, 3,615 teen drivers (ages 15 to 19) were involved in fatal crashes, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports.
A tragic crash in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, demonstrates the dangers of marijuana-impaired driving. Six teenagers lost their lives when a 16-year-old driver—who only had their license for four months—failed to come to a full stop at a stop sign. Tragically, their car collided with a truck loaded with gravel. Investigators suspect the driver was impaired by recent marijuana use. This heartbreaking incident serves as a grim reminder of how marijuana can cloud judgment and lead to life-altering consequences in just a split second.
What can parents do to protect their teens?
Parents play an important role in keeping their teens safe on the road. If your teen operates a vehicle, take some time to discuss the risks of driving while impaired by marijuana. Here are some ways parents can take action:
- Start the conversation: Explain how marijuana affects the motor coordination, reaction time, and judgment skills necessary for driving.
- Educate them on the law: Make it clear that driving while impaired is illegal in Washington State, even if it's legal for adult recreational use.
- Encourage smart choices: Teach your teen to avoid driving under the influence and never ride with an impaired driver.
- Lead by example: Teens learn by watching their parents. If you stay sober while driving, your teen is more likely to follow suit.
Hit by an impaired driver and injured? Don't settle for less than you deserve
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a car accident in Washington State, don't handle your case alone. When the insurance companies try to lowball your claim, The Scott Law Firm, PLLC, is here to fight for every dollar you deserve. Our track record speaks volumes, including:
- $670,000 for a passenger who suffered a two-level diskectomy and fusion after a crash-related cervical injury.
- $397,000 for a pedestrian who sustained an arm fracture after being struck by a distracted driver in a crosswalk.
- $250,000 for a motorcyclist injured in a freeway crash caused by a driver's improper lane change.
From handling mounting medical bills to recovering lost wages, attorney Colin Scott is dedicated to holding the responsible party accountable. Contact us today for your free consultation, and let us handle the legal battles while you focus on recovering. Our office is located in Vancouver, WA, and we offer legal representation to clients throughout Southwest Washington.