Ep 4. Stoned Driving

In season 3 episode 4 of Weediquette, titled Stoned Driving, the show explores the highly debated topic of driving while under the influence of marijuana. The episode begins by highlighting how states that have legalized marijuana have struggled to determine what levels of THC (the psychoactive compound in marijuana that causes impairment) in a driver’s system constitutes a DUI.

To dive deeper into this issue, host Krishna Andavolu meets with medical professionals who explain the science behind THC and how it affects the body. There’s no uniform measurement of THC in a person’s system, and the compound can remain in the bloodstream well after a person uses.

The episode then takes a turn as Krishna meets a driver who was involved in a serious accident while under the influence of marijuana. The man tells his story of how he had been smoking weed when he got behind the wheel, not thinking it was a big deal. He was wrong. The accident left him and the other driver severely injured and he ultimately served time in jail for his negligence.

Krishna also talks to law enforcement officials who have to determine if drivers are under the influence of marijuana. This isn’t an exact science, and it can be difficult for cops to prove that a driver is impaired without a blood or urine test.

Weediquette also highlights the work being done by some states to create an accurate measure of THC impairment. In California, for example, companies are developing oral swabs that can determine a driver’s level of impairment by measuring active THC in their saliva.

Overall, this episode of Weediquette tackles an important issue in an informative and engaging way. The show’s exploration of the legal, medical, and societal implications of driving while under the influence of marijuana shows that while the issue is complex, it is possible to find solutions that work for everyone.