As we know, CBD is not considered a narcotic under French law, but is indeed an additive. So what are the risks of consuming a product derived from hemp before driving? What do you risk if you're stopped, and can you test positive for drugs? Here are all the answers you've been waiting for.
It's illegal to use drugs while driving
As we all know, driving under the influence of drugs (of any kind) is illegal in the UK. The police can detect the use of such illegal substances (cannabis containing THC, LSD, Ecstasy, LSD, etc.) by means of a saliva test.
If the test is positive, 6 points are automatically deducted from the driver's license. The driver's license may also be withdrawn (suspended or fully revoked), and he or she may be fined or even imprisoned, with additional penalties in certain cases (e.g. loss of civil rights).
Can you test positive after taking CBD?
As we all know, for a cannabis-derived product to be legal in the UK, it must contain less than 0.3% Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive molecule found in cannabis. To clarify matters, we should point out that saliva tests carried out by law enforcement agencies during roadside checks only detect illicit substances (in this case, THC will be detected, but not CBD).
Il est donc extrêmement important de bien choisir les produits que vous consommez et de toujours opter pour des références qui respectent le taux de THC légal en France. Dans le cas contraire, vous vous exposez à consommer une quantité trop importante de THC qui pourrait être détectée lors d’un test et serait assimilée à la consommation de stupéfiants.
What should you do if you are arrested after taking CBD?
Premièrement, bien que le CBD soit légal et avéré sans danger pour le consommateur et sa santé, certains utilisateurs ressentent une sensation de fatigue accrue – voire de somnolence - suite à la prise de CBD. Il est donc déconseillé de prendre le volant directement après la consommation de cannabidiol. Nous vous suggérons d’attendre au moins 3 heures après la prise de la substance.
Finally, if you're ever stopped and asked to take a saliva test, remember to keep your receipt for the purchase of your CBD oils or other products. This will attest to your good faith.
Conclusion about taking CBD while driving
There's a fine line between legality and illegality here, and consumers are at the mercy of legislation that's a little vague and doesn't really protect them. So it's essential to pay close attention to the products you consume, and always respect a responsible intake.
