On December 11, Gov. John Hickenlooper signed Amendment 64 into law, legalizing marijuana for recreational use in Colorado. Adults 21 and older can possess six plants or one ounce of the drug. Residents cannot use it in public or sell it, and they cannot operate motor vehicles – including motorcycles – while under the influence of marijuana.

There is not much research available for how marijuana affects motorcycle riders, but a study performed by the National Highway Traffic Association (NHTSA) found that even small amounts of alcohol had noticeable effects on rider performance. Considering that marijuana can also affect balance and focus, it likely poses similar dangers to motorcycle riders.

NHTSA asked 24 bikers with an average 15 years of riding experience to complete basic riding tasks: weaving around pylons, negotiating curves, avoiding hazards and stopping quickly. They tested riders at four levels of blood alcohol concentration (BAC), each at or below the legal limit: .00, .02, .05 and .08. The riders’ performances worsened as the BAC increased in all tests. Riders at the .05 and .08 said that they were hesitant to “ride a motorcycle for any reason.” The NHTSA report said that alcohol’s “impairing effects were evident” in both the .08 levels and the .05 levels.

According to the National Institute of Health, marijuana impairs reaction times, focus and motor coordination, all crucial elements of safe motorcycle riding. It is also against the law. If you lost a loved one because a driver or biker was under the influence of alcohol, marijuana or another drug, feel free to talk to us. There is no charge for discussing your options after a critical motorcycle accident. Our number is (866) 377-3800.

Metier Law Firm, LLC – Denver accident attorneys