Pot Problems

A column in which I responded to a reader who requested stats relating to legalizing marijuana and subsequent stoned driving numbers prompted much response. “You are ignorant on this point - obviously speaking from prejudice rather than experience,” wrote one. Nothing more … just that. “You’re a fool. Pot doesn’t affect information processing or driving ability,” wrote another. Well, I confess I’m no expert on pot and driving. Nor is anyone else. Only two states have legalized recreational pot sales. There’s just not enough information yet for anyone to claim huge research-based expertise. All anyone can do is share data and see how it all shakes out. That said, I do know this: Smoking joints regularly and not having yet maimed anyone while driving does not qualify one as an expert, as the aforementioned writers seem to believe. One reader (who, unlike the other two, could be regarded as sufficiently reasonable you’d enjoy discourse with him) offered this considered observation: “I agree that driving under the influence of any substance that changes reactions on the road is bad. The young man shouldn’t be smoking pot and hitting the road unless he has a designated driver. The trouble I have with the latest statistics about pot use and driving is we have no idea how drugged the people in the numbers were at the time of the death or citation. Alcohol can be found in levels in the blood and is metabolized at a known rate. We have studied the effects and (concluded) people shouldn’t be on the road with (certain) blood alcohol levels - direct measurements of the agent. In 24 hours, unless you’ve really over-indulged, there’s no alcohol left in your system. Marijuana, on the other hand, is tested by looking at the breakdown products of THC. These products can be detected in the blood for three weeks or longer. The tests currently can only tell if a person used pot in the last three weeks or so. The test doesn’t tell if the person is unable to function (normally) behind the wheel. Until we have some kind of standard to define the limits or a test with limits for THC, all numbers are suspect, most of which are being pushed by the anti-drug forces. Thank you.” And thank you. What’s your question? Sharon Peters would like to hear about what’s on your mind when it comes to caring for, driving and repairing your vehicle. Email Sharon@ctwfeatures.com.