The government is being called on by doctors in Malta to tighten legislation relating to driving under drug influence, as traffic accidents could become more likely due to easier cannabis access.
Doctors for Road Safety (D4RS) drew on recent studies to highlight that cannabis is associated with a rise in traffic related deaths as the cannabis reform is set to be passed by parliament this upcoming week.
D4RS pointed to Colorado and Washington in the US in a new statement published Saturday, showing how traffic deaths involving drivers testing positive for cannabis doubled since the drug was legalised.
The cannabis reform drew much controversy from several groups and parties.
The NGO pointed out that cannabis results in impaired judgement, poor motor coordination and reaction time. Studies have also found a direct relationship between THC levels in the blood and impaired driving ability.
The current bill will allow people to carry up to seven grams of the substance for personal use and to grow up to four plants in their homes.
This also comes after the PN submitted an urgent request to discuss an anti-cannabis petition. Despite this, if the law goes through, it is not clear whether cannabis will still qualify as being a drug of abuse.
Weeks ago, Prime Minister Robert Abela did however state that people will not be able to drive whilst under the influence just like they wouldn’t if they were under alcoholic influence.
According to Maltese law, driving licenses are not to be issued for drivers who are dependent on psychotropic substances or who regularly use them, whatever category of license is requested.
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