Car Accident Lawyers

The use of Marijuana (cannabis) is much more widespread these days. While there used to be a stigma attached to this drug, it is now widely accepted. In fact, many states, including Florida, allow residents to use medical marijuana. Some states have even legalized the recreational use of cannabis despite federal laws stating it is illegal.  Even more common is the use of CBD, a phytocannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is used in a variety of wellness products aimed at providing relief from anxiety and pain. CBD can be ingested in a number of ways, including inhalation by smoke or vapor, or by eating it.

Due to its popularity and ties to cannabis, there have been legal controversies surrounding the use of CBD. State laws differ with respect to CBD. In Florida, a person would legally require a medical marijuana card to get CBD products. However, the use of hemp is not illegal. Hemp is a sister plant to the marijuana and it contains only trace amounts of THC. Therefore, Florida does not consider it to be the same as marijuana and it is legal to use. 

Many people claim that CBD gives them significant relief from a variety of ailments, including anxiety, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, glaucoma, muscle spasms, insomnia, and depression.  While the efficacy of CBD has not been scientifically proven, there is no doubt that it is being widely used.  

CBD does not get you high as many people may fear. However, many CBD products require a prescription since they contain levels of THC above trace amounts. In this case, a person should be aware of how the product will impact their ability to drive since the psychoactive properties of THC have been shown to impair driving ability when imbibed in significant amounts. CBD products may also have a chance to interact negatively with certain prescription medications. 

While CBD does not impair a person’s ability to drive, there could be situations where it can be abused and cause effects that may impair a person’s ability to drive safely. This could result in drowsiness and the loss of concentration, even though it does not directly cause impairment. If you have been injured in an accident that involves a driver who has used marijuana or CBD products, call Jeff Murphy Law, an auto accident lawyer in Tampa, FL, for a free consultation. 

Thank you to Jeff Murphy Law, for their input into legal settlements in Florida.