Many parents and teens are under the wrong impression that driving under the influence of marijuana is not dangerous.
Liberty Mutual and SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) commissioned ORC International to carry out a quantitative survey related to the driving behaviors and attitudes of the teens. The survey was done in April-May 2017. It involved 2,800 teenagers from high schools all over the country. The survey also included 1,000 parents whose teens already had a driving license.
Survey Findings
The study shows that 33% of the teens are under the impression that it is lawful to drive under the influence of marijuana in the states where it’s use is legally permitted for recreational purposes. Even 27% of the parents hold the same opinion.
Researchers found that 93% of the parents believe that it is dangerous to drive under the influence of alcohol and only 76% think that it is risky to drive under the influence of marijuana.
Similarly, among the teens only 68% think it is unsafe to drive under the influence of marijuana while 88% of them consider driving under the influence of alcohol dangerous.
On the whole, the study reveals that the teenagers have got mixed messages about the risks of driving under the influence of marijuana. 22% of the teens admitted that many of their friends were driving after consuming marijuana. Only 73% of them feel that marijuana can lead to impaired driving. While 88% think that alcohol impairs the faculties of the driver.
The findings of the survey reveal that both the parents and teens are under a wrong impression that driving under the influence of marijuana is not dangerous.
Official studies show that the consumption of marijuana can actually impair the driving skills just like alcohol. Driving under the influence of marijuana weakens the judgment and motor coordination of the driver.
In order to ensure everyone’s safety on the road it is essential for both parents and teens to understand that driving under the influence of marijuana is risky.
Useful Tips for Parents
Researchers have recommended certain steps that parents can take in order to prevent the teenagers from driving under the influence. Some of these include:
- Have open conversation with the teenagers – Parents are role models for their teenagers. They can talk to the teens about the dangers of driving under the influence of marijuana, alcohol or other drugs which can impair driving. Such discussions at a young age can help to convey the message effectively. The survey shows that 43% of the teens remember that they had such a conversation before they got their driving license.
- Clearly state the rules – Parents can tell the teens clearly that they should not drive under the influence of alcohol, marijuana or other drugs. If they do so they may lose their license or even their life.
- Parents and teens can have a secret code – Teens can use a code to alert their parents whenever they are in a vulnerable situation. They should feel comfortable to approach their parents for help.
Injured in a Car Accident?
If you or a loved one have been injured by a driver that was driving under the influence, contact The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. As one of the preeminent firms helping victims of St. Louis car crashes, we understand how to build strong cases. When you hire our firm, you can be confident that everything will be done to protect your rights and recover the compensation you need.
Call us today at (314) 361-4242 or fill out our online case evaluation form.