The distribution of medical marijuana around the state has some individuals concerned about a potential uptick in car accidents. A recent study published in the British Medical Journal indicates that individuals under the influence of pot were twice as likely to get into a serious car accident as sober drivers.

Impairment is just one cause of serious Arizona car accidents. Driver distraction and reckless driving are also contributing factors to car crashes throughout the state. The use of drugs or alcohol can make bad driving behavior more likely, and individuals who mix marijuana with alcohol or other drugs may pose a serious threat to responsible drivers.

"I've got news for you, impaired driving is impaired driving and yes, marijuana will cause impairment and any enforcement officer will tell you the same thing," said a spokesman for the Governor's Office of Highway Safety. The spokesman also stressed that anything which delays a driver's reaction time can lead to a serious car accident.

There are many consequences which arise out of a car accident. In addition to the annoyance of having a totaled car, the personal injuries arising out of a car accident can be devastating to a car crash victim. Many individuals suffer permanent disabilities and employment disruption due to the actions of a reckless driver.

It is unclear whether the soon-to-be growing numbers of medical marijuana users will cause a significant spike in car accident injuries. It is important for a car accident victim to remember that they can hold irresponsible high drivers accountable for the damages arising out of a car accident through the filing of a personal injury lawsuit.

Source: MyFoxPhoenix, "Study: Drivers are Twice as Likely to Crash when Stoned," Dan Spindle, Feb. 10, 2012