Of the many factors that one may consider (socioeconomic etc) surely road safety should be amongst them. Certainly, there should be valid research and clear findings on whether the use of marijuana is related or even causes road traffic accidents and injuries, before any decisions are made by governments.

One such recent study of Columbia University suggested that the last ten years the number of serious (fatal) road crashes in which the driver had been using marijuana before driving had tripled. This study showed that one of nine drivers involved in fatal accident crashes would test positive for marijuana.

This study was not carried out in Cyprus but if such findings could be replicated in Cyprus, the use of marijuana could be one of the main causes of road traffic accidents, especially amongst the youth.

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Frequently Asked Questions After a Car Accident: Our Answers

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It should be noted on the outset that the correct evaluation of the effects of marijuana during driving, if any, is a quite complex and multifaceted task. One should note be quick to come to conclusions. For example, the precise measurement for the amount of marijuana used before driving is not as easy, or even accurate, as it is with alcohol usage for example. We have already witnessed several reactions, reservations and variability of opinions during the discussion of the bill for introducing narcotest in Cyprus.

From our point of view, as compensation solicitors in Cyprus, several issues may be raised. A recent case we faced: our client, a motorcycle driver, was injured during an accident when a car driver blocked his way in an intersection without traffic lights. Our client was claiming compensation for pain and suffering due to his injuries and for damages and loss of income that was caused by the accident, against the driver’s insurance company in Cyprus.

Upon reviewing the facts of the case, it was apparent to us that the other driver was at fault. It transpired, however, that our client was driving under the influence of cannabis. So the insurance company relied on that, claiming that it was negligent on the part of our client motorcycle driver to be driving under the influence and therefore he was also partly to blame for the accident, and therefore the amount of compensation should be reduced to reflect that.

The common assumption is that the use of marijuana significantly impairs judgment, motor coordination, and reaction time. There are studies indicating a relationship (not causative effect) between blood THC concentration and impaired driving ability. On the other hand, there are those who maintain that marijuana makes them drive more carefully.

The debate continues. What is important is that the police authorities carefully gather relevant accident data. Constant analysis and review surely will only lead to safer roads.

Source: WebMD, “Fatal Car Crashes Involving Pot Use Have Tripled”.

http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/news/20140204/fatal-car-crashes-involving-pot-use-have-tripled-in-us-study-finds