New York DMV Permit Written TestAlcohol and Drug LawsMedium
A driver is involved in a collision and shows signs of impairment. They admit to having smoked marijuana several hours prior. Which symptom would be LEAST indicative of recent marijuana use affecting driving ability?
- APinpoint pupils
- BImpaired judgment of time and distance
- CDifficulty maintaining lane position
- DIncreased heart rate and anxiety
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Pinpoint pupils
Marijuana use typically causes dilated pupils, not pinpoint pupils. Pinpoint pupils are more commonly associated with opioid use. The other symptoms listed are consistent with marijuana's impairing effects on driving.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Marijuana distorts perception of time and distance, crucial for safe driving.
- C. Marijuana impairs motor coordination and attention, leading to lane control issues.
- D. Increased heart rate and anxiety can be physiological effects of marijuana, impacting focus.
Marijuana Impairment Symptoms
Marijuana use can significantly impair driving ability by affecting perception, judgment, motor skills, and reaction time. Physical signs often include dilated pupils, bloodshot eyes, and sometimes increased heart rate.
- Impairs judgment of time and distance.
- Reduces coordination and reaction time.
- Can cause dilated pupils and bloodshot eyes.
- Effects can last for several hours.
Memory trick: Marijuana makes driving hazy and slow.