Minnesota Cannabis DUI Laws and Penalties
<p>Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal in Minnesota, with strict penalties that can include license suspension, fines, and jail time.</p>
<h2>⚠️ The Law is Clear</h2> <p><strong>Do not drive while impaired by cannabis.</strong> Minnesota takes impaired driving seriously, regardless of the substance involved.</p>
<h2>How Impairment is Determined</h2> <p>Unlike alcohol (which has a clear 0.08 BAC limit), cannabis impairment is determined through:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Field Sobriety Tests:</strong> Walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, eye tracking</li> <li><strong>Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Evaluation:</strong> Specially trained officers</li> <li><strong>Blood/Urine Tests:</strong> Can detect THC presence</li> <li><strong>Observable Signs:</strong> Red eyes, smell, slowed reactions, behavior</li> </ul>
<h2>THC and Detection</h2> <p>Important to understand:</p> <ul> <li>THC can remain detectable in blood for days or weeks</li> <li>Minnesota has no set THC blood level limit</li> <li>Presence of THC + signs of impairment = potential DUI</li> <li>Regular users may test positive long after last use</li> </ul>
<h2>DUI Penalties</h2> <table> <tr><th>Offense</th><th>Classification</th><th>Penalties</th></tr> <tr><td>First DUI</td><td>Misdemeanor</td><td>Up to 90 days jail, $1,000 fine, license suspension</td></tr> <tr><td>Second DUI</td><td>Gross Misdemeanor</td><td>Up to 1 year jail, $3,000 fine, plate impoundment</td></tr> <tr><td>Third DUI</td><td>Gross Misdemeanor</td><td>Up to 1 year jail, vehicle forfeiture possible</td></tr> <tr><td>Fourth+ DUI</td><td>Felony</td><td>Up to 7 years prison, $14,000 fine</td></tr> </table>
<h2>Your Rights</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Implied Consent:</strong> Refusing a test results in automatic license revocation</li> <li><strong>Right to Attorney:</strong> You may contact a lawyer before testing</li> <li><strong>Challenge Results:</strong> Blood test results can be contested in court</li> </ul>
<h2>Safe Alternatives</h2> <ul> <li>Use rideshare services (Uber, Lyft)</li> <li>Designate a sober driver</li> <li>Use public transportation</li> <li>Stay where you are until sober</li> </ul>