The phrase "puff puff pass" is a common term in marijuana culture, traditionally referring to sharing and passing a joint. But what does "puff puff pass the keys" mean? This little twist on a familiar term means handing over your car keys to someone sober when you've had marijuana in any form. It’s a simple yet powerful concept designed to prevent people from driving while impaired, promoting safety for everyone on the road.
Colorado’s Marijuana DUI Laws
Colorado has legalized the personal use of small amounts of recreational marijuana. However, legalization does not mean unrestricted use, especially when it comes to driving.
Marijuana Use While Driving Is Illegal
Under Colorado law, using marijuana in any form while driving is strictly prohibited, including smoking, vaping, or consuming edibles. Even having an open container of marijuana in the car can lead to legal trouble if it is not in a fully sealed container, similar to open-container laws for alcohol.
Colorado’s THC Legal Limit for Drivers
Colorado law sets a specific threshold for THC levels in a driver’s bloodstream. If a driver has 5 nanograms or more of delta 9 THC per milliliter of whole blood, they can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or DUI of drugs (DUID). This amount is so microscopic that using any amount of marijuana before driving carries the risk of violating the law.
Also, if an officer observes signs of impairment, they can still arrest you for DUID even if your THC levels are below this threshold. The law focuses on driving while impaired, regardless of how much marijuana you’ve consumed or your THC levels. For some people, even small amounts of marijuana can impair focus, reaction time, and judgment. The safest route is always to avoid driving after consuming marijuana in any amount.
Practical Tips to Avoid Driving While Impaired by Marijuana
- Reinforce the “Puff Puff Pass the Keys” Mindset: Designating a sober driver before any marijuana use is by far the safest and easiest option. Just like choosing a designated driver for alcohol, assigning someone who hasn’t consumed any marijuana to drive helps keep everyone safer and ensures compliance with the law. Whether at a social gathering or just relaxing at home, commit to passing the keys to someone sober.
- Plan Ahead: If you know you’ll be using marijuana, take advantage of alternative transportation options. Convenient choices like rideshare services, public transportation, or taxis eliminate the risk of driving under the influence in all its forms.
- Wait It Out: Unlike alcohol, marijuana has a less predictable effect timeline, and the impairment from marijuana can last for several hours. Experts recommend waiting several hours after marijuana use before driving, with some sources suggesting at least six to eight hours depending on the method of consumption. Keep in mind that edibles can remain in your system longer than smoked marijuana, and their delayed onset and prolonged effects can increase the likelihood of accidental impairment.
- Stay Honest About How You Feel: Sometimes, your body gives you signals that you shouldn’t ignore. If you feel unusually relaxed, foggy, or have difficulty focusing, it’s safest to assume you’re too tired to drive at best and too impaired to drive at worst. Commit to the mindset that safety comes first and that driving while impaired isn’t worth the risk to yourself or others.
After a Marijuana DUI Arrest in Colorado
Despite your best efforts to remain cautious, mistakes do happen. If you find yourself arrested for a marijuana-related DUI in Colorado, know your rights and get strong legal representation.
You may face penalties such as fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Colorado’s express consent law also means you are required to submit to a chemical test if law enforcement suspects impairment, and refusing this test can lead to additional consequences like automatic license revocation through administrative (not criminal) penalties.
Remember that you have rights after an arrest, and The Orr Law Firm is here to protect them. Our experienced DUI defense attorneys understand the details of Colorado’s marijuana DUI laws and can challenge the evidence against you. Whether it’s questioning the accuracy of THC testing, the methodology of the arrest, or procedural errors by law enforcement, we can work diligently to provide the strongest defense possible.
Get Our Help with DUID Defense in Colorado
The idea of "puff puff pass the keys" is more than just a clever phrase; it’s a good reminder to plan for safety when using marijuana recreationally. Knowing Colorado’s strict marijuana DUI laws and taking proactive steps, like designating a sober driver or using alternative transportation, can prevent serious consequences. However, if you’ve been arrested for a marijuana DUI, let the Denver DUID lawyers of The Orr Law Firm help.
Contact us today to discuss your situation, and trust us to provide the professional support you deserve. Call (303) 747-4247 now.