Police warn against driving under influence of marijuana

Today, 4-20, is International Marijuana Day, a day known for the consumption of weed.

Police want to remind the public that marijuana is not legal in Oklahoma. Smoking pot can impair judgment, motor coordination, ability to concentrate, and slow reaction time. Therefore, it can impair driving skills.

Anytime the skills needed to drive safely are impaired, even slightly, the chances of having an auto crash increase. Specifically, studies have found that marijuana use affects the driver’s concentration and ability to perceive time and distance. This may lead to poor speed control, drowsiness, distraction, and the inability to read road signs accurately.

For a person arrested for driving while or after smoking pot, the effects and liability would be just like fpr those driving under the influence of drinking or under the influence of prescription medication.

The Ponca City Police Department was awarded a grant by the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office. Extra officers are on the streets during peak hours to ensure the safety of Ponca City’s citizens.