There are many people who believe that driving under the influence (DUI) occur only because someone was drunk on alcohol. Of course, “under the influence” can mean any drug, including alcohol.
One area that has seen the percentage of drivers under the influence of drugs other than alcohol is Phoenix, Arizona. As reported in www.ahwatukee.com.
DUI is the act of driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs including illegal drugs, medical marijuana and prescription medication.
There is no doubt that part of the reason for this increase is that more people are abusing illegal and prescription drugs.
A reason more DUI arrests are made for drugs other than booze is that Arizona has several hundred officers trained to recognize the symptoms of drug impairment. Officers are better trained now to pinpoint someone impaired by a substance other than alcohol, compared to only a few decades ago.
A significant factor contributing to the increase in total DUI arrests in Phoenix in 2011 was due to driving under the influence of drugs, which included arrests for driving under the influence of medical marijuana, illegal drugs, and prescription medications, even if the pills were dispensed legally.
Can it be that people driving loaded on marijuana or prescription medications believe they are not violating the law? Ignorance of the law is no excuse!
I feel that mandatory drug classes for all kids in middle school and high school certainly will help the situation. How do you feel?