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 several years, this molecule does not cause any psychotropic or harmful effects on health. On the contrary, it is the molecule of well-being and relaxation par excellence.
CBD is commonly consumed for its anti-stress and pain-relieving properties. Depending on how it is consumed, the relaxing effects can be felt within minutes or within an hour.
When inhaled or taken 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, dosage must also be considered. Indeed, some products have relatively low levels of CBD that offer mild relaxing effects.
Other CBD products offer powerful relaxing effects and may induce drowsiness or decreased alertness . This factor also varies from person to person.
For example, regular users are less affected by lack of concentration and feelings of fatigue.
Is it dangerous to take CBD before driving?
The effects of CBD vary, but consuming it before driving is still not a good idea. This applies to any substance that alters your state of mind and reduces your reflexes.
In some people, CBD can cause fatigue, dizziness, or nausea . While these are rare, CBD is a molecule that helps you relax. And when you're driving, it's not the ideal time to relax.
Even if you suffer from stress or anxiety and think CBD can help you overcome your fear and feel more comfortable behind the wheel, it is not a solution.
Always remember 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 give the keys to your car to a friend who has not consumed.
What does the law say about CBD while driving?
First of all, the marketing and consumption of CBD is governed by a fundamental rule: CBD must come from authorized hemp varieties whose THC content is always less than 0.3%.
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 also dangerous. Like alcohol, THC prevents you from concentrating and prevents you from driving in optimal conditions.
Therefore, you should never drive after consuming cannabis containing THC, even a few hours later.
When it comes to CBD, there's no specific ban, but ultimately, it's a matter of common sense. It's one thing for CBD to be legal, but it's not worth taking risks and putting your life, or the lives of others, at risk.
What are the risks in the event of a road check?
CBD products can contain up to 0.3% THC in their composition. In the event of a roadside check and saliva test, it is therefore possible to detect the presence of THC, even if the amount is tiny.
Yes, a saliva test for cannabis use can be positive, even if you've consumed CBD. A positive test could result in a two-year prison sentence, six points being deducted from your driving license, and a fine of up to €4,500.
