CBD and driving: is it possible?

What are the effects of CBD on the body?

CBD is a cannabinoid found in hemp plants. Authorized in France for a few years, this molecule does not cause any psychotropic effects or harmful to health. On the contrary, it isthe molecule of well-being and relaxation par excellence.

CBD is generally consumed for its anti-stress and pain-relieving properties. Depending on the mode of consumption, the relaxing effects are felt within minutes or within an hour. When inhaled or sublingually, the effects appear within minutes, while with the ingestion method, they can take 1 hour to appear.

To fully understand the effects of CBD on the body, you must also consider the dosage. Indeed, some products have relatively low levels of CBD that offer mild relaxing effects.

Other CBD products offer powerful relaxing effects andcan induce a form of drowsiness or decreased alertness. This factor also varies from individual to individual. For example, regular users are less affected by lack of concentration and feeling tired.

Taking CBD before driving, is it dangerous?

The effects of CBD are different, but consuming it before driving is still not a good idea. This is valid for all substances that alter your state and reduce your reflexes. In some people,CBD can cause fatigue, dizziness or nausea.

Although these are rare cases, CBD is a molecule that helps to relax. And when you're driving, it's not the best time to relax.

Even if you suffer from stress or anxiety and think that CBD can help you overcome your fear and feel more comfortable behind the wheel, it is not a solution.Never forget that a decrease in attention and a state of drowsiness can occur a few hours after consuming CBD. Even if this state is mild, do not take any risks and be patient or entrust the keys to your car to a friend who has not used.

What does the law say about CBD while driving?

First of all, the marketing and consumption of CBD is governed by a fundamental rule: The CBD must come from authorized hemp varieties whose THC content is always less than 0.2%.

Responsible for the psychotropic effects of the plant, THC is considered a narcotic and therefore illegal.

Therefore, driving after consuming THC is not only illegal, but dangerous. Like alcohol, THC prevents you from being concentrated and does not allow you to drive in optimal conditions.

You should therefore never drive after consuming cannabis containing THC, even a few hours later.

Regarding CBD, there is no particular prohibition but Ultimately, it's a matter of common sense. It's one thing that CBD is legal, but it's not worth taking the risk and putting your life or the lives of others at risk.

What are the risks in the event of a roadside check?

CBD products can contain up to 0.2% THC in their composition. In the event of a roadside check and a saliva test, it is therefore possible to detect the presence of THC, even if the quantity is very small.

Yes, a saliva test to detect cannabis consumption can be positive, even after having consumed CBD. In the event of a positive test, you risk a prison sentence of 2 years, a withdrawal of 6 points on the driving license and a fine of up to 4,500 euros.