When Does Weed Leave The Bloodstream? — How Long Marijuana Stays In An Average Adult’s Body

Unlike some other drugs, THC doesn’t “go away” shortly after its effects wear off. Even if users don’t feel “high,” there’s a significant chance they could have residual THC compounds in their cells. Cannabis consumers must keep this feature of marijuana in mind; a positive THC screening could result in costly repercussions.

So, how long does it take for cannabis to filter out of the body? Unfortunately, scientists can’t give a precise answer. While we know THC is detectable long after ingestion, how long it stays in each user’s system depends on multiple factors.

It may be impossible to give a “one-size-fits-all” answer for THC absorption, but a few recent findings could be of use to MMJ patients and recreational consumers alike.

 

How Long Will THC Stay In The Body?

 

The short answer is that delta-9 THC could remain in a person’s body anywhere between a few days to a few months. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to get more specific than that.

A significant reason researchers have a tricky time tracking THC has to do with its metabolites. Interestingly, even if there’s no delta-9 in a person’s body, there could be one of many compounds related to delta-9 THC.

When delta-9 THC goes through a person’s liver, it breaks down into roughly eighty THC metabolites. Many scientists believe these secondary chemicals remain in the body long after delta-9 clears via urine or feces.

Research out of Bangalore suggests delta-9 THC has a half-life of about 1.3 days in occasional users. However, Mayo Clinic scientists believe the metabolite THC-COOH could be found in urine within seven days after smoking a joint.

Not only do delta-9 THC and metabolites remain for a long time, new data suggests it appears in a person’s bloodstream almost immediately. Indeed, the University of Bern reports THC concentrations in blood plasma peak at five minutes post-ingestion.

For extra complexity, all of these THC molecules are fat-soluble. Unlike water-soluble nutrients like B vitamins, THC won’t dissolve in water and quickly pass via the kidneys. Instead, delta-9 and its metabolites will attach to the body’s fat cells. It could take many days for these stored THC molecules to get released and exit the body.

 

Will A Person’s Average Weekly Weed Usage Affect THC Readings?

 

Of the many factors that affect THC absorption, average weekly usage is the most significant.

Simply put: The more cannabis a person consumes, the longer THC will stay in their system.

Also, the more weed a person takes, the more likely they will score a positive result on a standard drug screening.

Findings out of the Mayo Clinic suggest THC detection scores range from about three days to 90 days in urine samples after participants smoked cannabis. Those on the low end of this spectrum took cannabis no more than three times per week. People closer to the 90-day extreme took at least two cannabis products per day.

Another test from the University of Bristol examined hair samples from over 130 participants. Scientists organized these groups into three categories: chronic, light, and non-users. After analyzing a 1 cm hair sample from every patient, scientists noticed a correlation between each person’s self-reported cannabis use and the likelihood of a positive result.

Lab technicians found high concentrations of cannabinoids like THC in 75 percent of study participants who used cannabis “chronically.” By contrast, about 40 percent of those in the “light user” category had positive cannabinoid readings in their hair samples.

 

Could Different Drug Tests Show Different THC Blood Concentration?

 

While cannabis use frequency plays a significant role in THC absorption, different testing methods could give unique readings on THC percentages.

For instance, scientists at Boston Children’s Hospital recently examined how long different test samples could detect THC. Of the various methods tested, blood and saliva had the shortest detection window of roughly 24 hours after smoking cannabis. Sweat was higher at between 7 – 14 days when using a sweat patch, while urine tests had an average cutoff of 30 days. Lastly, scientists claimed hair samples could detect marijuana use at least 90 days after smoking.

However, other studies suggest cannabis compounds could remain for much longer in saliva samples. For instance, the National Institutes of Health discovered traces of THC in saliva from chronic users after ~ 28 days of using cannabis.

Although we’re still learning how testing methods affect THC readings, it’s clear each method has a unique sensitivity to this cannabinoid. However, every test will detect THC and metabolites for a more extended period the more frequently people use cannabis.

 

Does Weight Weigh On A THC Screening?

 

As mentioned above, THC and its metabolites are fat-soluble. Therefore, most of these compounds will settle in fat cells for days and weeks before being released into the bloodstream.

Given THC’s fat-soluble nature, most scientists assume a person’s weight could influence how long THC remains in their body. The more fat cells there are, the more available “space” THC has to latch onto. Therefore, it probably takes more time for people with an above-average BMI to clear THC from their system.

Although there’s no empirical data tying a person’s weight to the time it takes THC to leave, there’s plenty of evidence that suggests THC clings to fat cells. In fact, a study out of St. Olav University Hospital found that physical exercise increases THC and metabolites in a person’s bloodstream.

Since activities like running “burn” fat cells, they speed up the release of stored THC. For this reason, many people seem to have higher THC concentrations in a urine test shortly after a workout. Even if an athlete didn’t take THC for a few days, it’s likely more metabolites are entering their bloodstream after an intense run.

 

Does CBD Oil Complicate Drug Screenings?

 

In theory, CBD should help people metabolize THC faster. According to most studies, CBD blocks THC from landing on CB1 receptors, which means any THC in a hemp product should leave the body relatively quickly.

However, scientists believe THC molecules could be stored in fat cells for days or weeks after ingestion—even if you’re taking a CBD-rich product. Please remember that THC breaks down into dozens of metabolites.

So, while drug tests don’t screen for CBD, that doesn’t mean hemp products can’t trigger a positive THC reading. Per US law, full-spectrum hemp derivatives could have as much as ≤ 0.3 percent delta-9 THC. Depending on a person’s metabolism, it’s possible THC metabolites could be detectable for days or weeks after smoking CBD hemp or taking a full-spectrum edible, oil, or tincture.

 

Afraid Of Cannabis Readings? reepher’s Team Can Provide Relief

 

It’s scary not knowing how much THC is in your bloodstream. Even if you haven’t taken cannabis for a while, there’s a chance some THC could still be in your system. Since marijuana tests can have significant consequences, cannabis users need to be extra careful about taking this herb.

If you’re concerned about driving as a regular cannabis consumer, you’re not alone! reepher provides up to $15,000 in cannabis DUI coverage so you can be a little less paranoid while driving sober. Click here to learn more about DUI coverage for the price of a pre-roll.

The Dangers Of Cannabis And Driving

Nobody doubts that alcohol adversely affects driving. If you ask people about driving with cannabis, however, you’re bound to get a boatload of responses.

While research into “riding with reefer” is ongoing, pot does not improve a driver’s skills. Unlike what some consumers want to believe, recent data shows consuming cannabis negatively impacts driving. Recreational and medical consumers need to be extra careful about when they consume and never drive under the influence of cannabis.

There may not be mountains of data on “high driving,” but a few trends have emerged in recent years. A quick review of the latest research should help thoughtful users understand the risks of using weed behind the wheel.

 

Do Cannabis Laws Lead To More Crashes? — What The Data Shows

 

Establishing causation is always tricky; especially when researchers are dealing with a federally illegal drug. However, new evidence suggests that states with recreationally legal cannabis laws have more police-reported crashes.

Indeed, this was a crucial finding in a new IIHS report that analyzed collisions in six states between 2012 – 2016. Three of these states—Colorado, Oregon, and Washington—have cannabis laws that allow recreational use. The nearby control states (Idaho, Nebraska, and Utah) forbid recreational weed.

According to IIHS analysts, the states with legal weed experienced an average increase of 5.2 percent in traffic crashes. Interestingly, collision stats in states without recreational pot dipped by one percent.

These IIHS findings are similar to those in a 2018 report by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI). Instead of tracking police-reported crashes, the HLDI examined average collision claims in states with and without recreational weed. The HLDI’s data found that Colorado and Washington State experienced a significant increase in crash claims versus nearby non-recreational states.

As state governments looked closer into this issue, they discovered something quite alarming—cannabis isn’t the sole culprit in most crash cases. These findings have led many state officials to propose a new DUI category: “poly-drug driving.”

 

What Is Poly-Drug Driving? 

 

“Poly-drug driving” is precisely what it sounds like: driving under the influence of two or more drugs. This classification is significant to know because it’s the primary reason drivers who test positive for cannabis get into fatal crashes.

Both the Washington Traffic Safety Commission and the Colorado Division of Criminal Justice have raised concerns over the correlation between poly-drug driving and crash fatalities. Washington State claims that 44 percent of drivers involved in deadly crashes had more than one drug in their system. In 2016, poly-drug driving contributed to 2,264 Colorado collision cases.

By far, the most common combination of drugs is alcohol and THC. Indeed, Colorado found that just 15.5 percent of poly-drug crashes in 2016 didn’t involve THC and liquor. When Colorado officials detected THC in a driver’s bloodstream, there was a 70 percent chance they also had alcohol.

Washington’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey also found that cannabis smokers were more likely to engage in risky behaviors. Binge drinking was the most common dangerous habit associated with cannabis consumers. Researchers also found that cannabis consumers were more likely to drive “buzzed” or neglect to wear their seat belt.

A 2016 AAA study supported all of these state-sponsored findings. After pouring over hundreds of THC-related DUI reports, AAA found that 23 percent had just cannabis in their system. All of the other cannabis DUI cases had both alcohol and THC.

Even the US Department of Transportation claims that drivers who took alcohol and cannabis are at an 8.4-times greater risk of getting into a fatal crash. These findings strongly suggest alcohol plays a crucial role in fatal cannabis-related crashes.

 

How Does Alcohol Affect THC?

 

Since alcohol plays a significant role in THC-related collisions, many scientists are interested in how these drugs work together. In fact, the American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) conducted a trial examining this very issue.

For this study, researchers gave adults one of three vape cartridges. The first group had a placebo, while the other two inhaled varying amounts of THC. Shortly afterward, each participant was given a tiny amount of alcohol or a placebo.

When scientists analyzed the THC in each person’s bloodstream, they discovered the total THC concentration was highest in those who vaped and drank alcohol. For instance, people who took the higher dose of THC plus alcohol had 67.5 µg/L THC in their bloodstream. On the flip side, those who just vaped a high-THC strain had 42.2 µg/L THC.

While doctors are still investigating these drug interactions, the study indicates alcohol intensifies the effects of THC. Findings like these help explain why alcohol plays a prevalent role in cannabis-related crash fatalities.

 

Is It OK To Take THC Before Driving? 

 

Short answer: no.

Since cannabis crash fatalities are closely associated with alcohol, some people assume that THC isn’t a serious threat. In fact, a survey out of Washington State found that only 36 percent of pot smokers said cannabis negatively affects driving. For comparison, 77 percent of non-cannabis smokers said weed weakened driving skills.

This survey also revealed remarkable differences in how various age groups felt about cannabis and driving. Generally speaking, the younger the driver, the less likely they expressed concern over weed’s effects. Over 50 percent of respondents aged 15 – 20 said cannabis improves driving skills. Only 13 – 17 percent of drivers aged 21 – 35 agreed with this statement.

There seem to be two reasons some people dismiss the ill effects of THC. The first has to do with alcohol’s involvement in many cannabis crashes. The second (and arguably more common) explanation has to do with the “lack” of scientific research.

Because cannabis is federally illegal, it’s still not particularly accessible for testing purposes. Indeed, it’s only in the past few years that reputable universities have been able to study the intricacies of marijuana cannabinoids.

However, there are enough high-quality, placebo-controlled studies that show THC adversely affects a user’s motor skills. For instance, the AAA study mentioned above found that cannabis smokers had weaker scores on field sobriety tests. Also, research out of the Netherlands discovered that drivers who vaped THC or THC and CBD had worse lane weaving than drivers who took CBD or a placebo.

A recent Boston University trial also examined the effects of low-dose THC, THC and CBD, and CBD on a driver’s psychomotor skills. The data from this study showed that THC and the THC/CBD mix weakened a person’s driving ability.

So, despite what many consumers want to believe, THC will put you in danger while driving. Even the cannabis advocacy group NORML admits that THC has “acute” effects on driving performance.

These negative effects are most pronounced in younger and inexperienced cannabis smokers. As evidenced by the survey results above, consumers in their teens tend to underestimate weed’s effects on driving abilities—often resulting in tragic consequences. Indeed, NORML reports that drivers between 18 – 25 are most likely to take risks like driving after consuming pot and alcohol.

 

How Much THC Is Too Much Before Driving?

 

Although many trials suggest THC affects motor skills, it’s impossible to figure out an average “THC threshold.” Indeed, the Mayo Clinic recently said traces of delta 9 THC could be in a person’s urine four hours after taking marijuana. Experienced tokers may have THC in their body for weeks after smoking cannabis. Therefore, THC levels could appear elevated long after the “high” wears off.

Unlike alcohol, cannabinoids and THC-related metabolites have a relatively long half-life. This makes tracking THC levels a tricky way to assess a person’s driving skills.

Given all of these complications, it’s near impossible to recommend a “safe” cannabis dosage. For the time being, NORML urges responsible cannasseurs to refrain from driving after using a cannabis product. Cannabis consumers should only use weed when they don’t have to drive for a long period of time.

 

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Cannabis DUI laws may seem like a drag, but they are essential for public safety. Although we’re still learning how cannabis affects driving skills, it’s clear that many serious car crashes involve weed and alcohol. Recent research also suggests THC hinders driving performance.  Cannabis consumers need to understand these potential risks before hitting the road.

Even if you’re a responsible driver, please remember that THC has a long half-life. There’s always a chance your THC level may be above the tolerated limit, especially if you consume regularly. To help cannabis consumers deal with this risk, reepher offers up to $15,000 in dui coverage. Click here to learn how you can protect yourself for the price of a pre-roll.

Everything Cannabis Users Should Know About THC Blood Tests

Hundreds of workplaces and police offices are searching for reliable ways to measure THC intoxication in employees and drivers. There are even a few prestigious universities pouring money into THC breathalyzer technology.

To date, however, scientists are having a difficult time inventing the ideal THC detection test. While each analysis technique could detect THC and associated metabolites, they can’t prove a 1:1 correlation with a person’s physiological state. In fact, there’s still a hot debate over just what amount of THC constitutes intoxication.

Unlike drugs like alcohol, THC could remain in a person’s system long after they’ve used marijuana. So, while most drug screening methods can give a sense of a person’s prior marijuana use, they may not prove a patient’s current mental state.

However, some researchers argue that marijuana blood tests offer a clearer glimpse into a driver’s current THC intoxication. Although marijuana blood tests aren’t standard, they are a viable screening method. As marijuana blood tests become more influential, cannabis customers should know how they compare with other screening methods.

 

What is the Difference Between a Cannabis Blood Test and Urine Test?

 

Arguably, the best way to understand cannabis blood tests is to contrast them with the more common urine samples. Generally speaking, cannabis blood tests focus on delta-9 THC concentration, while urine tests look for THC metabolites like THC-COOH.

Why do these tests specialize in different THC compounds? Short answer: THC absorption rates.

Soon after a patient inhales cannabis, delta-9 THC rapidly enters the bloodstream. In fact, recent tests suggest THC is detectable in blood plasma 3 – 10 minutes after a person smokes cannabis. However, these delta-9 molecules are quickly converted into numerous THC metabolites.

Both delta-9 THC and its associated metabolites are fat-soluble. By contrast with water-soluble nutrients, fat-soluble compounds don’t dissolve in water and quickly pass in a person’s urine. Instead, cannabinoids like THC are stored in fat cells and only gradually released into the kidneys for excretion.

Interestingly, the more fat a person burns during a workout, the more THC floods their body for excretion. This is why some studies suggest exercise increases the odds of a THC positive reading, even if someone hasn’t smoked cannabis for a few days.

Urine tests are usually better at detecting prior cannabis use, while blood tests could capture the immediate “delta-9 spike.” In fact, blood samples may give analysts a precise picture of the THC actively influencing a person’s endocannabinoid system.

Scientists have begun comparing THC blood test results with urine samples to test these theories. Most results suggest blood samples can accurately tell the active amount of delta-9 THC, but only briefly. Urine tests, however, could detect THC metabolites days or weeks after cannabis use.

For instance, research from the University of Iowa examined THC concentrations in a controlled driving experiment. Researchers took blood samples immediately after participants used cannabis and a few hours later.

According to this report, THC concentrations were at their peak shortly after cannabis ingestion. Even a few hours later, blood samples could only detect minute traces of THC.

Other reports suggest THC concentrations could reach up to 100 ng/mL in a blood plasma sample three minutes after inhaling cannabis. However, these concentrations often go down to the single digits approximately one hour after smoking.

Although blood samples may find THC hours or days after cannabis use, they probably can’t detect metabolites as far back as urine samples. Many studies examining cannabis urine tests suggest these samples can give positive readings weeks after ingestion.

 

Does Cannabis Use Frequency Affect THC Blood Test Results? Does How Often I Smoke Affect THC Blood Test Results?

 

No matter what test doctors use, dozens of secondary factors could affect a person’s THC readings. Arguably, the most influential factor in any cannabis screening is drug use frequency.

THC concentrations seem to linger longer in heavy users, even in blood samples. Research out of Germany found that chronic cannabis users had higher concentrations of THC in their blood over a two-day trial period.

So, if people use cannabis more than twice per week, traces of THC will likely remain in blood samples days or weeks after use. Check out our THC calculator and see how frequency of cannabis consumption will impact the results of a drug test.

 

Why Would Police Ever Use Marijuana Blood Tests?

 

While marijuana blood tests might give a more accurate reading of current intoxication, they aren’t the most practical tests to administer. Arguably, the reason urine tests are standard in police units is that they’re easier to collect.

However, there are some cases where police may feel a blood test is warranted. Typically, authorities will request cannabis blood screenings if a driver was involved in a severe accident. The theory is that these blood tests will give a better read on the driver’s current state of intoxication.

When scientists want an accurate assessment of the active THC in a patient’s bloodstream, they will likely use a cannabis blood test. Until researchers discover a more convenient way to administer these tests, however, it’s unlikely blood samples will become the norm.

 

So, Is A Blood Test Best For THC Detection?

 

Blood tests are a valid form of cannabis screening. In fact, according to the latest data, blood tests may give the most accurate picture of a person’s THC intoxication. Some studies have also found that blood serum tests measuring between 7 – 10 ng/ml could legitimately be considered DUI.

However, there are many complexities surrounding cannabis blood tests. For starters, it isn’t easy to collect these samples on the road or in a work environment. Also, since blood tests only seem to be accurate about one hour after taking cannabis, they have a short window of opportunity.

Despite these considerations, that doesn’t mean officers or employers can’t legally request cannabis blood samples. Also, blood tests could reveal THC concentrations even after a few days of abstinence. Like other drug tests, a person’s genetics, frequency of cannabis use, and age may influence THC absorption.

 

Concerned About Cannabis DUI? reepher Could Help!

 

Considering most states have no minimum THC threshold for a DUI conviction, cannabis consumers face serious risks if they drive with the slightest trace of THC in their system. With few exceptions, police can charge a driver with a marijuana DUI no matter how little THC is in their test if their driving behavior suggests or implies intoxication. The penalties drivers will face for a cannabis DUI conviction are severe and not to be taken lightly!

If you’re a cannabis consumer concerned about potential DUI charges please check out what a reepher membership has to offer.

 

 

Policing Pot DUIs – What Drivers Should Know About Cannabis DUI Procedures

On one hand, it has never been so easy to get legal marijuana in the USA. Sure, cannabis isn’t federally legal, but many states now offer medical or recreational programs. Conversely, marijuana usage has never been as scrutinized as it is today, particularly regarding DUIs.

Although most states haven’t significantly altered their DUI laws, lawmakers want to deter drugged driving. As cannabis becomes more culturally acceptable, legislators and police must ensure it doesn’t pose any public safety risks. Therefore, policing cannabis DUIs is a top priority for legislators in “green states.”

Drivers must review how each state defines cannabis DUIs and what police look for in potential perpetrators. A clear understanding of how cannabis DUIs work could significantly alter a driver’s decisions.

 

Things to Avoid When Driving – Drive Safely!

 

Like with alcohol, police need “probable cause” to pull over drivers for a cannabis-related DUI. In other words, drivers must pose a threat to public safety for officers to inspect a driver for DUI.

In most cases, this “probable cause” is related to erratic driving. Whether a driver was swerving out of lanes, stopping short, or disobeying traffic signals, officers should have a clear safety-related cause for intervening.

Here are a few common behaviors associated with impaired driving:

  • Driving through stoplights.
  • Driving over curbs.
  • Stopping and starting your car.
  • Parking in the middle of the road.
  • Driving faster or slower than the official speed limit.
  • Swerving out of lanes.
  • Disobeying yield or stop signs.

However, it’s worth noting that many jurisdictions allow police to set up random field sobriety tests. At these checkpoints, drivers must submit to standard DUI screenings, no questions asked. While most of these tests check for alcohol, it’s becoming increasingly common for officers to investigate cannabis use as well.

Drivers should also remember officers can request DUI-related info if they were involved in a crash. Even if a driver doesn’t harm anyone, police can ask for a drug test if the motorist caused any property damage.

 

How Do Police Test For A Cannabis DUI?

 

There’s no formal checklist for evaluating a driver’s cannabis use. Instead, police officers pay careful attention to a driver’s appearance and behavior to determine whether they’ve used marijuana.

Police will scan a driver’s car for any signs of recent drug use. In the case of marijuana, this may include looking for drug paraphernalia like pipes, lighters, or joint paper. Responding officers will also smell a driver’s breath and vehicle or clothing for lingering weed-related odors.

A few of the following traits may also trigger a DUI investigation:

  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Dilated pupils
  • Confusion
  • Slurred speech
  • Memory impairment
  • Poor hand-eye coordination
  • Uncontrollable giggles

If an officer believes a driver was using marijuana, they could enlist the help of a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE). When a DRE arrives on the scene, they will use standard field sobriety tests to scan for muscle coordination and balance. DREs could also examine a person’s eyes for dilation or ask them to count backward.

Lastly, officers may request a drug test to examine THC content in a driver’s bloodstream. Currently, it’s impossible to scan THC with a breathalyzer, so officers often ask drivers to submit a drug test via urine, saliva, or blood sample.

In most states, there’s no minimum allowed THC threshold for DUIs. Indeed, if drivers have any THC in their system, they may be charged with a DUI. However, some states like Colorado formally recognize a cannabis DUI if a driver has 5 ng/ml THC in their bloodstream.

 

Have Cannabis DUI Stops Increased in Legal States?

 

Marijuana has yet to enjoy full legalization like alcohol, so it’s difficult to say what will happen in a post-Prohibition America. However, recent data suggests there could be a rise in cannabis-related DUIs after pot becomes legal.

Indeed, info from Washington State suggests relaxed cannabis laws play some role in increased DUIs. According to Washington State’s data, ~ 19 percent of total DUI crashes before Initiative 502 involved THC. After this 2012 law legalized marijuana, the rates of THC DUIs increased to 33 percent in 2015.

Researchers at AAA also found that more Washington drivers involved in fatal DUI crashes had THC in their system post-Initiative 502.

Between 2008 – 2012, the average rate of fatal THC-related DUIs ranged from 8.6 – 9.4 percent. In 2013, however, these DUI rates spiked to 14 percent, and they continued to climb with each year. AAA said 21.4 percent of DUI drivers in fatal crashes in 2017 had THC in their system.

Colorado police have also noticed an increase in cannabis-related DUIs since legalizing weed in 2012. A recent report from the Colorado State Patrol suggests marijuana DUIs have increased by 48 percent between 2020 and 2021. Researchers at Mothers Against Drunk Driving claim Colorado’s fatal marijuana DUIs went from 11.43 percent to 21.3 percent between 2013 and 2017.

Nationally, the NHTSA found that marijuana use while driving has increased in recent years. As of 2014, about 12.6 percent of weekend drivers had some amount of cannabis in their blood during late hours. By contrast, that NHTSA figure was around 8.6 percent in 2007.

While these statistics are valid, they don’t necessarily prove a correlation between THC and DUI fatalities. Indeed, researchers at the University of Sydney recently found no strong association between a driver’s THC blood sample and psychomotor function. Scientists arrived at this conclusion after analyzing dozens of reports on car crashes involving marijuana.

Recent data from Colorado’s Division of Criminal Justice also suggests drunk driving remains the most lethal form of DUI in the Granite State. While DUI cases involving delta-9 rose from 2,489 in 2016 to 2,848 in 2019, alcohol-related DUIs remained above 13,900 per year between 2016 – 2019.

Interestingly, even when Colorado police suspected drivers of using THC, about 53 percent of cases had above five ng/mL THC in their system. For context, about 10 percent of alleged alcohol-related DUI tests came out negative in 2019.

As more people use legal cannabis, it’s likely police will find THC or related metabolites in more drivers. Customers in states like Colorado are more prone to take marijuana products, and police are likely to scan more people for this cannabinoid. Both of these factors contribute to the DUI numbers in recreationally legal states, but they don’t necessarily prove a connection between THC limits and a person’s impairment.

 

Concerned About Cannabis DUI charges? Get reepher!

 

Considering most states have no minimum THC threshold for a DUI conviction, cannabis consumers face serious risks if they drive with the slightest trace of THC in their system. With few exceptions, police can charge a driver with a marijuana DUI no matter how little THC is in their test if their driving behavior suggests or implies intoxication. The penalties drivers will face for a cannabis DUI conviction are severe and not to be taken lightly!

If you’re a cannabis consumer concerned about potential DUI charges please check out what a reepher membership has to offer.

 

 

What is a Cannabis DUI and its consequences?

keys to car with cannabis flower

For most people, “DUI” is synonymous with “driving drunk.” Although alcohol is the most common drug in DUI cases, any intoxicating substance could lead to DUI charges. Most notably, cannabis use could lead to a DUI offense. In fact, the National Institute on Drug Abuse now reports that THC is the second most common substance found in the blood of drivers involved in crashes.

No matter how lenient a state is on recreational pot, law enforcement takes cannabis DUIs seriously. Cannabis consumers should know their state laws regarding marijuana DUIs and what to expect from a DUI test. Knowing the penalties associated with cannabis DUIs should help consumers understand what’s expected of them when driving.

 

How Do US States Define A Cannabis DUI?

 

Interestingly, most states don’t have minimum THC thresholds for cannabis DUI convictions. This means that as long as there’s some THC in a driver’s system, and the officer reasonably suspects a driver is intoxicated,  it’s enough to charge them with a DUI offense. Even if motorists weren’t involved in a crash, they could face a DUI conviction if officers detect any THC in their system.

As legalized cannabis use has expanded, some states have added a minimum THC threshold for a DUI conviction. For instance, in Colorado and Washington State, a driver with five nanograms or more of THC per milliliter of blood can be prosecuted for a cannabis DUI.

 

What is a Cannabis DUI According to the Police?

 

The top reason police pull people over for suspected cannabis DUI is the same as alcohol DUI: erratic driving. If a driver randomly stops and starts their car, doesn’t obey traffic signals, speeds or drives over curbs, officers may pull the vehicle over and suspect the driver is intoxicated.

When police suspect someone of using weed behind the wheel, they will first inspect the vehicle for signs of marijuana use. This could include traces of the plant as well as marijuana paraphernalia. Police will also pay close attention to a driver’s behavior, appearance, and scent. Any of these features could contribute to reasonable suspicion of cannabis use.

For a more thorough roadside cannabis screening, the police may call in a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE). Many of the assessments DREs use for suspected cannabis users are identical to alcohol-related field sobriety tests. The main goal behind these tests is to assess a driver’s balance and coordination.

For instance, drivers may be asked to walk from heel to toe for nine steps, turn, and walk back. Sometimes DREs ask DUI suspects to stand on one foot for a few seconds. In most cannabis-related cases, DREs carefully scan a driver’s eyes for involuntary movements and dilation.

Depending on the results from these sobriety tests, police may request a driver to submit a urine or blood sample. For regular cannabis consumers these tests often reveal the presence of delta-9 THC or other THC metabolites.

 

Could Police Legally Test Me for THC?

 

To understand how police could legally request a drug test, it’s essential to understand the concept of “implied consent.” Under this law, drivers have agreed to give a sobriety-related chemical test whenever police request one. You can’t legally drive in any US state without submitting to this standard practice.

So, if the police suspect you’re under the influence of marijuana while driving, they can legally require you to take a drug test. Every state forbids motorists from using intoxicants before or while driving on the state’s roads. To enforce this law, police have the authority to arrest anyone they suspect of using substances like THC.

Technically, drivers could refuse to take a DUI drug test, but this decision has significant repercussions. Most notably, drivers may face an automatic license suspension for refusing a drug test. This refusal could also be used as evidence against the driver in a future trial.

It is important that cannabis consumers understand their rights as drivers. For example, many states allow drivers to contact a lawyer before agreeing to take a DUI drug screening. It’s also possible, in some states, for drivers to get a second drug screening from a registered doctor or laboratory. Some states even allow drivers to choose a physician they feel comfortable working with.

 

How Do Police Measure THC In A Person’s Body?

There are a few ways to test a person’s THC concentration, but the standard method is to scan a urine sample. While less common, police could also request a blood, hair, or saliva test to detect THC concentration. It is important to note that these tests only confirm the presence of THC or THC metabolites, not that a driver was intoxicated.

Currently, it’s impossible to detect THC metabolites with a breathalyzer machine. Although some scientists are working on a cannabis-specific breathalyzer, it’s unlikely this machine will be ready for at least a few years.

How Fast Does THC Leave A Person’s System?

 

Scientists still don’t know everything about THC’s half-life, but most studies suggest it usually takes days for THC to clear a user’s system. Indeed, most medical experts claim THC metabolites could appear on a urine test about three to five days after smoking just one joint.

As someone uses cannabis more often it is more likely THC will stay in their system after the most pronounced effects fade. THC and resultant metabolites take a long time to clear a person’s endocannabinoid system. In some cases, THC could linger in a person’s body for weeks or months. So, even if a regular cannabis smoker doesn’t feel intoxicated, they could have a significant amount of THC in t

heir bloodstream.

Since everyone has a unique metabolism and endocannabinoid system, each patient will absorb THC at different rates. There’s also evidence that age and weight could influence how long THC stays in a person’s bloodstream.

It’s worth noting many legal CBD products could affect a THC drug screening as well. Full-spectrum CBD oils could have ≤ 0.3 percent THC, so it’s possible THC metabolites could appear in a urine sample after consuming CBD containing products.

Also, many trendy hemp THC alternatives like delta-8 or delta-10 are virtually indistinguishable from delta-9 THC. These new cannabinoids also have a long half-life, which means they could influence a drug screening long after consuming them.

 

What Are The Penalties For A Cannabis DUI?

 

The consequences of a cannabis DUI are similar to those in an alcohol DUI conviction. Although every state has nuanced punishments, most include a temporary license suspension, a mandatory drug education course, and a fine. It’s also possible for cannabis DUI convicts to get a jail sentence.

person in handcuffs arrested for DUI

Concerned About Cannabis DUI? reepher Could Help!

 

Considering most states have no minimum THC threshold for a DUI conviction, cannabis consumers face serious risks if they drive with the slightest trace of THC in their system. With few exceptions, police can charge a driver with a marijuana DUI no matter how little THC is in their test if their driving behavior suggests or implies intoxication. The penalties drivers will face for a cannabis DUI conviction are severe and not to be taken lightly!

If you’re a cannabis consumer concerned about potential DUI charges please check out what a reepher membership has to offer.