In the US, there are over 6 million car accidents each year. Unfortunately, many of these would have been entirely preventable if drivers would have taken certain precautions.
For example, driving while high is something that many people engage in, but it can come with a large number of consequences. In some cases, you could even have your Illinois driver’s license revoked.
How Does THC Impact Your Driving Capabilities?
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. It’s what gives users the feeling of being high.
While the effects of THC can vary depending on the person, it generally leads to a sense of relaxation and euphoria. It can also cause changes in perception, increased appetite, and impaired movement. All of these effects can impact your ability to drive.
THC can slow your reaction time, make it difficult to focus, and impair your judgment. It’s important to remember that even a small amount of THC can have a big impact on your driving.
What Are the Risks of Driving High?
Driving while impaired by THC increases your risk of getting into an accident. In fact, studies have shown that marijuana use can nearly double your risk of being in a crash.
THC can also be detected in your system long after the effects have worn off. This means that you could be impaired even if you don’t feel high anymore.
If you’re pulled over by the police, you could be given a sobriety test. If you fail, you could be charged with DUI (driving under the influence). This can lead to expensive fines, jail time, and a suspended license.
What Is the Legal Limit For THC in Your System?
There is no clear legal limit for THC in most states. However, some states have implemented “zero tolerance” laws. This means that any trace of THC in your system could lead to a DUI charge.
Other states have set THC limits similar to the blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for drunk driving. In these states, you can be charged with DUI if your THC level is above a certain amount.
What Should You Do if You’re Pulled Over?
If you are pulled over by the police, it’s important to stay calm and be polite.
Don’t make any sudden movements and keep your hands where the officer can see them. If the officer asks if you’ve been drinking or using drugs, you have the right to remain silent. You should politely decline to answer any questions until you have a lawyer present.
If the officer asks you to step out of the car, you should do so. If you’re asked to perform a field sobriety test, you can politely decline. These tests are often inaccurate and can be used against you in court.
If the officer asks to search your car, you can again decline politely. The officer may have to get a search warrant if you don’t consent to the search.
If you’re arrested, you should immediately ask to speak to a lawyer. Don’t say anything to the police until your lawyer is present, as anything you say can be used against you in court.
This is especially true if you admit fault in any form.
What Are the Penalties For Driving Under the Influence of THC?
The penalties for driving under the influence of THC can vary depending on the state you’re in.
As previously mentioned, you may be charged with a DUI if police are able to prove that you were significantly impaired by the amount of THC in your system. Unfortunately, you may find yourself in a situation like this even if you feel perfectly normal at the time.
In some states, you may be able to get your DUI charge reduced or dismissed if you agree to enter a drug treatment program. However, this is not always the case.
Working with a legal professional will help you navigate this situation.
Driving High in Illinois Could Have Serious Consequences
It’s essential that you avoid driving high at all costs in the state of Illinois. Be sure that you keep the above information on to you can stay as safe as possible in the future.
Contact us today if you have any questions or need help with IL driver license reinstatement.
