Can you drive on CBD oil?
While CBD oil is now relatively easy to find and buy, crucial questions surrounding the cannabinoid are still being asked. So if you're aiming to include CBD oil or cannabidiol pouches in your daily routine, it's understandable you'll want to be cautious and even more so when it comes to the legalities of driving. Not only could it be costly in insurance premiums, but you could face a conviction.
However, you can legally drive after vaping or consuming CBD as long as you are fit to do so. First, let's look at the how and why.
The Law, CBD and driving
The UK Government changed the law for drivers in 2015 regarding medication and drugs. The purpose was to clamp down on drug driving and make it easier for the police to charge and convict someone under the influence of alcohol or other stimulants, who generally make roads less safe for other road users and pedestrians.
If you're stopped, the police will often conduct a 'field impairment assessment' if they think you're on drugs. You've probably seen some of these tests in films and on television, such as asking the driver to walk in a line (Johnny Cash, anyone?).
The police may also use a roadside drug kit to screen for other drugs. However, CBD oil is legal as long as it doesn't contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) - the psychoactive compound within the cannabis plant. So as long as your oil contains negligible amounts of THC (0.02%), you're OK to use it.
Is CBD oil safe when driving?
There's been a great deal of research on the subject, and it's safe to say, CBD oil is non-intoxicating and won't affect your ability to drive.
The cannabinoid of cannabis that has been studied in detail is THC. Still, the research results have been considerably mixed, with studies showing there is no excess risk associated with THC to some or moderate risk. Namely, some studies suggested that the cannabinoid may impair motor functions, judgement and coordination - all of which are crucial when behind the wheel.
To be safe, ensure your CBD manufacturer has zero THC in their products. Fortunately, for CBD to be legal in the UK and Europe, most suppliers have specialist methods for filtering out the THC (or use industrial hemp that already has extremely low tetrahydrocannabinol compound levels).
How long after taking cbd oil can you drive?
There's nothing wrong with driving straight after taking CBD. Generally, you can begin to feel the effects of CBD within 15 minutes if you're vaping, bucally (with a CBD pouch) or using it sublingually (under the tongue). Edibles and topical products can take a little longer - typically between one or two hours.
Can you drive safely after taking CBD oil?
Although CBD oil is safe for most people to enjoy, you need to be aware of your body and any medication or health issues you might have. Cannabinoids react differently to an individual's metabolism. Before you begin your journey, consider these factors:- Have you recently taken legal or illegal drugs?
- If in any doubt about prescription drugs, always check with a professional before taking that risk.
- If you are not 100% sure you feel fit to drive, wait until you feel prepared.
- Make sure the labelling on your product is extensive, and you know exactly what the content includes.
Are there side effects to CBD?
While CBD is deemed safe by the MHRA and is generally well tolerated by people's bodies, there have been examples of certain side effects with CBD use.
While side effects are generally quite rare (and pretty mild if they do occur), it's important that users are conscious of how their body reacts to taking CBD in the same way they would be with any other food supplement and should stop taking if they believe it's having an adverse effect.
One side effect that can be caused by taking a high dose of CBD oil or by taking too much of the cannabinoid too quickly is sleepiness or drowsiness. This could be dangerous when driving a vehicle, so again it's important to be aware of how you are personally reacting to the doses you're taking and adjusting them accordingly.
So, should I drive after taking CBD?
In conclusion, so long as you take CBD oil as recommended, you will be safe and legal to drive. There is nothing wrong with being over-cautious, so if in any doubt, don't take the risk.
