Many Connecticut drivers have asked the question since the legalization of cannabis is, “Can I be arrested for driving while being high on marijuana?” The answer to that question is yes, you can, and I’ll tell you why in a moment. The website dui.drivinglaws.org states:
Connecticut’s OUI laws prohibit driving with a BAC of .08% or more or while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Anyone convicted of an OUI can expect fines, license suspension, and possible jail time.
OUI is the abbreviation for “Operating Under the Influence”, which includes drugs and alcohol and means that the operator’s ability to drive is “affected to an appreciable degree.” So, the next question is, “Is there a sobriety test to detect how much THC is in a driver’s blood?”
According to the website koffskyfelsen.com, no roadside tests are currently available to test for levels of THC in a person’s system. So, common sense tells us that if you’ve decided to get behind the wheel, avoid lighting up a big fat joint so you’re able to drive sober.
A Connecticut police officer trained as a “Drug Recognition Expert” or DRE can decide if you should be arrested for driving stoned. Before Connecticut passed legislation to legalize marijuana, a DRE’s evaluation was strictly voluntary. According to Hearst Connecticut Media, now with the new legislation, drivers must take the evaluation, like it or not.
DRE training is one of the toughest courses a CT police officer can take. Trained DRE’s are currently employed in towns across Connecticut, including New Milford, Monroe, Wilton, Newtown, Norwalk, Torrington, Waterbury, and Shelton.