Is Cannabis Consumption Legal While Driving? Understanding Florida Law on Driving High
The Perazzo Law Firm reminds all Florida drivers: hitting the road requires more than just a set of keys—it takes clear focus and quick reflexes. In the Sunshine State, driving under the influence of marijuana, even if prescribed for medical use, is a serious criminal offense. Florida’s DUI laws don’t cut corners when it comes to cannabis. Whether it’s THC or tequila, impairment is impairment, and the law makes no exception.
Florida Law: Cannabis and Driving Don’t Mix
Under Florida Statute §316.193, it’s illegal to operate a motor vehicle while impaired by any controlled substance, including marijuana. That means even medical marijuana cardholders can face arrest and prosecution if THC affects their ability to drive.
Simply put: if you’re high, you shouldn’t drive. The law treats marijuana just like alcohol when it comes to DUI charges—with zero tolerance for impaired driving.
How Does Cannabis Impair Drivers?
Marijuana may not carry the same scent as alcohol, but it can cloud a driver’s mind just the same. THC can reduce critical driving skills, including:
- Slower reaction times
- Poor concentration and memory
- Impaired hand-eye coordination
- Difficulty judging distance and speed
These impairments raise the risk of motor vehicle accidents, which can lead to life-altering injuries or death. If you’ve been hit by someone driving high, a Miami car accident lawyer at The Perazzo Law Firm can help you hold the impaired driver accountable through an insurance claim for compensation.
What Are the Legal Consequences for Driving High in Florida?
The penalties for cannabis-related DUI in Florida are harsh and escalate quickly:
- First Offense:
$500–$1,000 fine, up to 6 months in jail, and license suspension up to one year. - Second Offense:
$1,000–$2,000 fine, up to 9 months in jail, a one-year license suspension, and mandatory ignition interlock. - Third Offense:
$2,000–$5,000 fine, up to 12 months in jail, a longer suspension period, and a permanent record.
These aren’t just traffic violations—they’re criminal charges that can haunt you for years.
How Do Police Test for Cannabis Impairment?
Unlike alcohol, which can be measured on the spot with a breathalyzer, marijuana impairment requires blood or urine testing. Under Florida’s implied consent law, drivers must agree to these tests when lawfully requested. Refusing to comply? That could mean an automatic license suspension and additional penalties on top of any DUI charges.
Why You Need a Miami Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a crash involving a high driver, you don’t have to face the legal maze alone. The team at The Perazzo Law Firm is here to help. A Miami car accident lawyer can investigate the case, build your claim, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Final Thoughts from The Perazzo Law Firm
Driving high isn’t just risky—it’s illegal and can wreck lives in a heartbeat. Marijuana might be legal in some forms, but the law is crystal clear: THC and traffic don’t mix.
If you’ve been injured by a driver under the influence of cannabis, don’t wait. Contact The Perazzo Law Firm, your trusted Miami car accident lawyers, for a free consultation today.
