Increase in Traffic Accidents Linked to Cannabis Use in Brandenburg

Recent data from Brandenburg has revealed a notable rise in traffic accidents involving drivers under the influence of cannabis. The 2024 traffic accident report indicates a 25% increase, with incidents rising from 96 in 2023 to 120 in the following year. This surge is being closely examined in light of the partial legalization of cannabis that took effect in April 2024.

Brandenburg's Interior Minister has expressed concerns regarding the correlation between the legalization of cannabis and the rising number of traffic incidents. The increase in accidents under cannabis influence is unprecedented, with no other cause showing such a significant jump. Alongside this, the number of injuries in accidents linked to cannabis has risen from 52 to 61. Fortunately, there were no reported fatalities in 2024, compared to two fatalities the previous year.

The Interior Minister has criticized the decision to legalize cannabis, arguing that it has led to more accidents on the roads. Prior to legalization, law enforcement agencies had warned about potential increases in traffic incidents, a sentiment echoed by the Minister, who believes that the government's focus should have been directed towards other pressing issues.

Under the new regulations, adults are allowed to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis, with strict restrictions in place regarding its use in public spaces, especially near children and educational institutions. Legislation permits individuals to grow a limited number of cannabis plants for personal use or join a cultivation club.

In conjunction with the legalization, adjustments were made to the regulations concerning drivers. A legal limit for the psychoactive compound THC in the bloodstream has been established, similar to the alcohol limit of 0.5 grams per liter. Drivers found with 3.5 nanograms of THC or more per milliliter of blood face fines of 500 euros and a one-month driving ban. Moreover, individuals who consume alcohol in addition to cannabis may incur higher penalties. New drivers are subject to a zero-tolerance policy regarding THC levels.

The implications of these findings underscore the ongoing debate surrounding cannabis legalization and its impact on public safety, particularly concerning road traffic incidents.