Following Colorado’s lead, a handful of states have legalized recreational marijuana while a number of other states have legalized medical marijuana or have decriminalized possessing certain amounts. Even in states like Iowa who have not embraced legalized recreational use, there are some who feel it’s just a matter of time due to more relaxed attitudes toward marijuana use and the potential business opportunities it presents. Of course, many more argue there are a number of downsides to the legalization of marijuana, some which are starting to play out in states that led the charge. In Colorado, drugged driving has become an increasing problem since pot was legalized, which is not something many had anticipated.
Colorado marijuana dispensaries outnumber Starbucks 2 to 1 so it may not be all that surprising that there is an uptick in the number of DUI arrests, some involving injury accidents. Despite efforts by marijuana industry workers who have teamed with MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) to warn consumers against drugging and driving, more drivers are being pulled over high on pot or a mixture of pot and alcohol since recreational use was legalized. A whopping 70 percent of Coloradans admitted to driving under the influence of marijuana in the last year and more than 25 percent say they drive high every day – a disturbing acknowledgment when considering the link between impaired driving and fatal motor vehicle accidents.
Recent statistics underscore the problem of impaired driving, whether the drug of choice is alcohol or another substance. In 2016, over a million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs in the U.S. In the same year, over 10,000 people lost their lives to impaired drivers and many more were injured. Marijuana users are said to be about 25% more likely to be involved in a crash and 16% of all motor vehicle crashes were attributed to drugged driving (without alcohol) in 2016 alone. Here in Iowa, impaired driving has also taken its toll. Many families have lost a loved one in fatal accident due to someone driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
Injured in Car Accident by an Impaired Driver?
Contact an Iowa Impaired Driving Car Accident Lawyers For Help!
Outraged by the fact Iowa seems to be soft on impaired drivers, many are calling for stricter laws in hopes of curbing the number of drunk and drugged driving accidents that occur in Iowa and across the country. As it stands, however, impaired drivers, even those with repeat offenses, continue to pose a risk to themselves, other motorists, bicyclist and pedestrians everyday. When people get injured in motor vehicle accidents involving an alcohol or drug impaired driver, they deserve to be compensated for their injuries and other damages. If you or a family member has been injured in an Iowa impaired driving car accident, contact the Iowa DUI car accident injury lawyers of Stoltze & Stoltze PLC for immediate assistance today.
