Due to its recent legalization in states like Colorado and Washington, the issue of driving under the influence of marijuana has come into focus across the country.
Marijuana impairs your ability to drive.
There is no doubt among scientists, law enforcement personnel and emergency medical workers that using marijuana significantly impairs a person’s:
- Short term memory
- Ability to make decisions
- Hand-eye coordination
- Attention span
There is an “urban legend” that marijuana does not affect one’s ability to drive, but numerous studies contradict that assertion, in addition to ample anecdotal evidence. Take the case of Joseph Beer, for example.
In 2012, 17-year old Beer was intoxicated on marijuana while driving his car at speeds approaching 100 miles per hour on the Southern State Parkway on Long Island. Four of his friends were with him, and when Beer approached a dangerous stretch of road – commonly referred to as Dead Man’s Curve – he struck a tree, killing the four passengers and splitting the car in two.
On August 6 of this year, Joseph Beer was sentenced for five to 15 years in prison after he plead guilty to aggravated vehicular homicide and driving under the influence of marijuana.
For a free legal consultation with a marijuana drugged driving lawyer serving Long Island, call 888-468-4878
In New York State, an injured party can sue for damages in civil court if they are injured by a driver who is intoxicated on marijuana. Because marijuana is different from alcohol in the way it is detected, it is often up to the expertise of the victim’s personal injury lawyer to prove that a driver was impaired.
Our firm can fully represent you if you have been involved in an accident where the injuring party was under the influence, but justice often comes down to a race against the clock. Call 1-888-GOT-HURT today if you have been injured by a drunk or drugged driver, and leave the rest to us.
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