NTSB Warns of Rising Teen Marijuana Crashes

Floridians are getting ready to make a choice this November. Amendment 3 is on the ballot, and if passed, recreational marijuana could become legal in the Sunshine State. While legal cannabis might sound like a win for many Floridians, we need to stay mindful of its potential risks.

Irresponsible use could spell trouble on our roads, especially among teen drivers. Parents already face many challenges as their teens get behind the wheel, and teen marijuana crashes are a growing concern.

The dangers of driving high

Driving while under the influence of marijuana is always unsafe. It impairs motor coordination, slows reaction times, and affects judgment, especially regarding time and distance. These impairments are dangerous on the road and often lead to Florida car accidents.

One study in Washington State shows that before the legalization, the average proportion of THC-positive drivers involved in fatal crashes was 8.8% annually. After legalization, this rate increased to an average of 18% annually.

How prevalent is the risk of teen marijuana crashes?

Teens are already at higher risk on the road due to their limited driving experience. Add marijuana into the mix, and the risk multiplies. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2022, 3,615 teen drivers across the United States were involved in crashes that resulted in fatalities.

For teens, impaired judgment and delayed reactions from marijuana can have devastating consequences.

Teens often don't realize how much marijuana affects their driving skills. They might think they're more in control than they really are, and that overconfidence, mixed with a lack of experience, creates a dangerous combination.

In one heartbreaking case from Tishomingo, Oklahoma, a 16-year-old and five other teenage passengers died in a crash at an intersection. Instead of stopping at the stop sign, the teen briefly slowed, then accelerated and turned left in the path of an oncoming truck. According to reports, the teen driver was just four months into driving with an intermediate license and had likely been impaired by recent marijuana use.

This tragedy shows how even a small mistake, combined with impairment, can lead to devastating consequences. It's a sobering reminder that teens must be extra cautious about making safe decisions on the road.

How can parents help prevent teen marijuana crashes?

Open the dialogue

Start a conversation with your teen about the impact of marijuana on their driving abilities. Explain how it affects motor skills, judgment, and reaction times. Make it clear that driving under the influence is not only illegal but also puts their life and others at risk. An open and honest discussion can help them understand the serious consequences.

Educate your teen on Florida's laws

Impaired driving can lead to serious and long-term legal consequences. It's important to educate your teen on Florida's laws regarding marijuana use and driving. Florida has a zero-tolerance policy, meaning any detectable amount of marijuana in a driver's system can lead to severe legal consequences. Remind your teen of the potential legal and personal repercussions, emphasizing that these laws are designed to keep them safe and secure their future.

Lead by example

Show your teen the importance of responsible driving by being a role model. When they see you driving unimpaired and making smart choices, it reinforces your message about safe driving. Your actions speak louder than words, so maintain consistency in how you handle driving under the influence.

Promote responsible choices

Equip your teen with strategies to avoid risky situations. Encourage them to steer clear of getting into a vehicle with an impaired driver. Teach them how to identify signs of marijuana impairment and stress the importance of seeking a safe ride home. Reinforce that it's always better to err on the side of caution rather than take chances with an impaired driver.

We hold negligent drivers accountable

Injured in a crash with an impaired driver? Whether you were a passenger, another driver, or just sharing the road, the Law Offices of Brent C. Miller, P.A. is here to fight for your rights. We understand how tough it is to pick up the pieces after a collision, and we're here to ensure you recover the compensation you deserve.

With over 75 years of combined experience, our Central Florida car accident lawyers have a track record of winning large verdicts and settlements. For example, we've secured:

• $5.6 million for a crash involving a car and a tractor-trailer
• $1 million for a collision between a motorcycle and a large truck
• $610,000 for a crash involving a drunk driver

We work on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay fees if we win. We offer full-service legal support and are committed to serving clients throughout Tavares, The Villages, Inverness, Clermont, and all of Central Florida. Don't delay—contact us online or call us today for your free consultation, and let us guide you on the road to recovery.