The legalization of cannabis is expected to bring in billions of euros in tax revenue for Germany, but it also has its downsides. According to a recent study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the legalization of marijuana has led to an increase in traffic accidents and fatalities. The study analyzed data from five US states where marijuana consumption is legal for those over 21 years old. After legalization and the start of retail sales, these states saw an average increase of 5.8% in traffic accident injuries and 4.1% in fatal accidents. In comparison, a control group of states where marijuana was not legalized did not see any increase during the same period.
The first increase in injury rates for traffic accidents was observed after legalization but before the start of retail sales. Injury rates for car accidents increased by 6.5% after legalization but decreased slightly by 0.7% after the start of retail sales. However, rates of fatal accidents increased both after legalization (2.3%) and after the start of retail sales (1.8%). The study suggests that the legalization of marijuana removes the stigma associated with its use, while the start of retail sales only increases access. Users who previously avoided driving under the influence may now believe it is acceptable to do so.
The stronger link between the legalization of marijuana and injuries in traffic accidents, compared to fatal accidents, may be due to the behavioral adjustment of some drivers under the influence of cannabis. These drivers often reduce their speed and maintain a greater distance from other vehicles. Although their driving ability is impaired, at lower speeds they may not be able to prevent an accident, but the resulting accidents may be less likely to be fatal. The study’s author suggests that states considering the legalization of marijuana should take measures to prevent a potential increase in accident rates. This includes convincing people that driving under the influence of marijuana is not acceptable, introducing laws and sanctions to punish those who ignore this message, and ensuring that the necessary resources are available to enforce these laws and sanctions.
