So You Think You Can Blaze and Cruise: A not-so-scientific look at driving high in California
Ah, California. Land of sunshine, beaches, and...legal weed? Well, yes and no. While the Golden State embraces recreational marijuana, there's a big, fat DON'T when it comes to mixing it with driving.
Because apparently, DMs from the universe don't count as turn signals.
California, like most sensible places, has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence (DUI) of any substance, including marijuana. That means even if you think you're totally chill man, you can end up in hot water (or perhaps a not-so-chill jail cell).
Here's why lighting up before hitting the road is a bad idea:
- The Law is a Buzzkill (Party Pooper?): California cops are trained to spot drugged drivers. Bloodshot eyes? The giggles that won't quit? They might pull you over and subject you to field sobriety tests. Let's face it, who wants to do jumping jacks while questioning the meaning of life?
- Your Brain on Vacation: Weed can slow your reaction time and impair your judgment. This isn't ideal when you're hurtling down the freeway at 70 mph surrounded by unpredictable soccer moms and distracted teenagers. Think of it this way, would you trust your high self to parallel park between two shopping carts at the grocery store? Exactly.
- The Munchies are Real, and Distracting: Let's be honest, the urge for a giant bag of Fritos can be overwhelming after a good smoke session. Now imagine that craving hitting you while you're white-knuckling it through rush hour traffic. Not exactly a recipe for safe driving.
Wait, but what about medical marijuana?
Even with a medical marijuana card, driving under the influence is a no-no. There's no magic number for how much THC is "safe" to drive on, and the police will focus on whether you're impaired, not your prescription status.
The Bottom Line:
California may be chill, but its DUI laws are not. If you're planning on indulging, make sure you have a designated driver (DD) – someone who is gloriously sober and happy to take the wheel. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.
P.S. If you're looking for a way to relax after a long day, California has plenty of amazing views to enjoy that don't involve getting behind the wheel. Spark up, take a hike, and contemplate the true meaning of chill.
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
