PHOENIX — A report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety says nearly 15 million drivers admitted to getting behind the wheel within an hour after using marijuana. The scary thing is, those who drive while high are twice as likely to cause a fatal accident, according to the report.
12 News talked with Phoenix personal injury attorney Marc Lamber, who is an expert on DUI laws in the state. He warns against underestimating the effect that THC can have on your ability to drive.
According to the study, nearly 70% of Americans believe it is unlikely that people driving under the influence of marijuana will get caught.
“So I’m seeing more people driving impaired more and more in my practice,” said Lamber.
DPS said the agency arrested 719 people in Arizona in 2018 for driving under the influence of THC
Determining if a driver is high is tricky, some agencies are using mouth swabs, other blood and blow test, so finding credible numbers across the country is challenging.
But one thing Lamber is seeing more of is people under the influence of multiple drugs who are driving.
“I’m seeing more people getting busted for being under the influence of marijuana, alcohol and prescription drugs,” Lamber said.
Lamber said if you hurt someone, not only will you face criminal charges…you’ll be responsible for the injuries that person sustains.
And the fact that they were high at the time is an aggravating factor.
Lamber said the best way to avoid needing his services is to never use any mind-altering substance before you drive.
“We’re not at the stage where we have robot cars, so don’t use them, or take an Uber,” said Lamber.
Lamber has launched a campaign through his law firm called Buzz Kill Pledge, where you electronically sign an agreement saying you won’t drive if you ingest marijuana.