As marijuana laws evolve in Virginia, residents and medical marijuana patients must understand the legal landscape, particularly concerning driving under the influence.
While recreational marijuana is legal in Virginia, purchasing it isn’t yet possible until at least 2027, leaving medical marijuana as the only accessible option for residents through a medical marijuana card. This guide explains why medical marijuana is the right choice, the dangers and legality of driving under the influence, and what patients in Virginia need to know.
Understanding Virginia’s Marijuana Laws
Virginia made headlines by becoming the first Southern state to legalize recreational marijuana in July 2021. However, the rollout has been slow, with recreational dispensaries not expected to open until at least 2027. This means that for now, the only way to legally access marijuana in Virginia is with a medical marijuana card.
A medical marijuana card allows patients with qualifying conditions to purchase marijuana products from licensed dispensaries. To obtain one in Virginia, patients need certification from a registered medical provider confirming that they suffer from a condition that could benefit from marijuana use.
Is It Legal to Drive After Using Marijuana in Virginia?
The short answer is no. While possession and personal use of marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is strictly prohibited under Virginia law.
Virginia law treats driving under the influence of marijuana similarly to driving under the influence of alcohol. If law enforcement suspects you are impaired, you may face legal consequences, even if you are a medical marijuana patient.
Virginia Code § 18.2-266 states it is illegal to drive while under the influence of any substance that impairs your ability to operate a vehicle safely. This includes marijuana, regardless of whether it was obtained legally through a medical program.
Why Driving High Is Dangerous
The use of marijuana can significantly impair cognitive and motor skills essential for safe driving. Research demonstrates that THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, negatively impacts reaction time, coordination, and decision-making abilities, even among experienced users.
These impairments can be particularly dangerous behind the wheel, as drivers under the influence of marijuana are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents compared to sober drivers. Even small amounts of THC can substantially reduce a driver's ability to respond quickly and appropriately to unexpected road situations, increasing the risk of collisions and potential injury.
The compromised judgment and slowed reflexes make marijuana use especially hazardous when operating any motor vehicle, underscoring the critical importance of avoiding driving after cannabis consumption.
How Virginia Enforces Marijuana DUIs
Law enforcement in Virginia is trained to detect impairment, and medical marijuana patients must be particularly cautious when driving. If pulled over and suspected of driving under the influence of marijuana, drivers may face a series of rigorous assessments.
Officers can conduct field sobriety tests to evaluate coordination and cognitive abilities, and Virginia law permits chemical testing of blood or urine to detect THC presence. A positive test result can lead to serious consequences, including criminal charges, substantial fines, and potential jail time depending on the offense's severity.
To protect themselves, medical marijuana patients should adopt careful strategies when using cannabis. Critically, individuals should plan marijuana use around times when driving is not necessary, recognizing that THC can remain in the system for hours after consumption. It is essential to avoid driving until completely certain of sobriety. Additionally, Virginia law strictly prohibits open marijuana containers in vehicles, so patients must transport their medical products in sealed, original packaging, ideally stored out of reach in the vehicle's trunk.
Being prepared for potential law enforcement interactions is crucial. Medical marijuana patients should always carry their medical card and certification. While this documentation does not provide immunity from driving under the influence laws, it can help clarify the legal status of marijuana possession if questioned. The key is to prioritize public safety and legal compliance while managing medical treatment.
Why Medical Marijuana Is the Right Choice in Virginia
With recreational dispensaries still years away, medical marijuana represents the sole legal avenue for Virginians to access cannabis products. The state's program offers significant advantages, providing patients with access to rigorously tested, safe marijuana products that ensure consistent quality and avoid the risks associated with unregulated sources.
The medical marijuana card connects patients with healthcare professionals who offer personalized guidance, helping them select appropriate strains, determine optimal dosages, and recommend suitable consumption methods tailored to specific medical conditions. This professional oversight can significantly improve treatment outcomes and minimize potential side effects.
Legal protections allow cardholders to possess and use marijuana without unauthorized possession penalties, though these do not extend to impaired driving. While recreational dispensaries are not expected to open until at least 2027, Virginia continues to make incremental progress in refining its marijuana laws. For now, the medical marijuana program remains a vital resource for patients seeking alternative treatment options.
Use Responsibly and Stay Safe
The legalization of marijuana in Virginia represents significant progress, but it also comes with responsibilities. Driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal and dangerous, posing risks to yourself and others. As a medical marijuana patient, it’s crucial to prioritize safety, understand the law, and make informed choices about when and where to use your medication.
For those considering medical marijuana, obtaining a medical marijuana card is a smart and necessary step. It grants access to safe, legal products and ensures you stay compliant with Virginia’s laws. With responsible use and a focus on safety, patients can reap the benefits of medical marijuana without compromising their well-being or legal standing.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today
Lucky for you, medical marijuana is already available in Virginia! You can get your medical marijuana card and access dispensaries today if you have a qualifying condition.
Recreational marijuana is legal in Virginia, but it does not mean much since there are no recreational dispensaries to purchase products from.
There are also countless benefits to having your medical card in a recreational state! You will save money on taxes and marijuana products and enjoy higher possession and purchase limits if you have your medical card in Virginia!
In order to qualify for your medical marijuana card, you will need to have a condition that would make you eligible. If you aren’t sure if you would qualify, give us a call and we can answer any questions you may have about the process.
If you don’t already have your card, no worries. We can help! If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you would qualify for your medical card in the State of Virginia. With telemedicine, it is now easier than ever to get your medical card from the comfort of your own home!
In Virginia, any inhibiting condition could qualify you for your medical card. If you don’t already have it, we can help! Schedule an evaluation online today and we’ll make an appointment for you with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors.
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
At Virginia Marijuana Card, our mission is helping everyone achieve wellness
safely and conveniently through increased access to MMJ. Our focus on
education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by
providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
Call us at (888) 633-5808, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
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