Pubdate: Thu, 02 Jan 2003
Source: Daily Observer, The (CN ON)
Copyright: 2003, OSPREY MEDIA GROUP INC.
Contact:  http://www.thedailyobserver.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2615

RESPONSIBILITY IS STILL YOURS

Medicinal marijuana use still remains a controversial topic in most social 
circles.

Then there is the pending decriminalization of possession or using the 
substances, not to be confused with legalization, which would make it a 
legitimate activity for us all to enjoy.

Wherever you sit on the above issues, there has to be common ground when it 
comes to driving while under the influence of drugs.

Be it marijuana for recreational use or for medicinal purposes, the smoker 
is likely to be affected by toxins.

Bottom line, stay off our roads and highways if you are indulging in this 
activity, please.

Lawyer Rick Reimer, a medicinal marijuana user, doesn't believe he is 
affected by the drug the same way an occasional user can be. Whether this 
is true or not, doesn't really matter.

He is arguing that the police do not have an effective way of determining 
true impairment. He is probably correct, but that doesn't minimize the real 
issue at hand, people driving when their bodies and minds are not 
functioning properly.

Bottom line - drugs cause the reflexes of most people to slow down. If Mr. 
Reimer isn't one of them, then that's great. But let him prove it.

Meanwhile, anyone whose ability to drive safely is in doubt because of 
disease or drugs, should be tossing the keys to a friend. Plain, simple, 
and it could save a life.
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MAP posted-by: Alex