It seems marijuana is making a comeback as a medical treatment. Over 30 states have legalized cannabis for medicinal purposes, and Florida recently took it one step further.
In March 2019, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill that legalized smoking pot for eligible medical marijuana patients. It’s being called a “landmark victory” by marijuana advocates; however, we think it’s worth reminding drivers that medical marijuana can contribute to distracted driving.
While cannabis is increasingly being accepted in the medical community, the fact is it still impairs judgment, reduces reaction time and decreases coordination.
Even when taken medicinally, marijuana users can still get high and possibly get into car accidents because of it.
Concern surrounding driving or operating heavy machinery after drinking alcohol or taking prescription medicine isn’t new, but in recent years it has become more of a problem for states like Florida that have opened up to medical and recreational marijuana.
If you ingest medical marijuana, refrain from driving until the effects fully wear off and it’s no longer in your system.
Source: Office of Medical Marijuana Use, Florida Department of Health
Medical Use of Marijuana in a Form of Smoking
Are there restrictions to where smokable medical marijuana may be consumed?
Yes.
May qualified patients smoke medical marijuana in public or an indoor workplace?
No. The law specifies that medical marijuana may not be smoked in any public place and prohibits the medical use of marijuana by smoking in an “enclosed indoor workplace,” as defined in the Florida Clean Indoor Air Act.
May a qualified patient smoke medical marijuana on their own private property?
Yes. A patient may smoke or vape medical marijuana on private property as allowed by the property owner. The law provides that s. 381.986, F.S., does not impair the ability of a private party to restrict or limit smoking or vaping marijuana on his or her private property.
May a qualified patient smoke medical marijuana in a nursing home, hospice, or assisted living facility?
Yes, if the facility does not prohibit medical use of marijuana in the facility’s policies. The law provides that s. 381.986, F.S., does not prohibit the medical use of marijuana in a nursing home, hospice, or assisted living facility if the facility’s policies do not prohibit the medical use of marijuana.
Just because it’s legal to get high, doesn’t mean it’s legal to drive high. If you’re the victim of reckless drivers, Lorenzo and Lorenzo wants you to know you’re not alone. Contact our offices today for a free consultation and the legal help you deserve.
