A recent study that surveyed college students found that more students in the United States are turning to using marijuana rather than tobacco.
In the “Monitoring the Future” study, a little less than 6 percent of full-time students who were surveyed by researchers at the University of Michigan said that they used pot either every day or at least 20 times in the previous 30 day period.
A study conducted in 1999 that showed 5 percent of those surveyed having identified as heavy cigarette smokers. In the more recent study, this number dropped some 19 percent.
The results of the study suggests that college students are more aware of the public health warnings and risks regarding cigarette smoking, but view the consumption of marijuana as somehow carrying fewer risks to their health.
The study and survey of college students across the nation regarding their drug and alcohol consumption habits had been conducted by the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research every year since 1980.
The 2014 survey indicates the highest ever recorded use of marijuana among students. It is the first time that regular consumption of marijuana outpaced the use of cigarettes.
Of the college students surveyed, 21% indicated having used marijuana at least once during the previous 30 days while 34% indicated having used it in the past 12 months.
Students surveyed also indicated an increase in the use of cocaine than in the previous year. Cocaine use jumped to 4.4% in 2014 while it was just 2.7% in 2013.
The study did have some good news, however: Half of the students who participated in the survey responded that they had not used any illicit drugs whatsoever in the past year.
The charge of DUI or DWI isn’t just for those who get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. A person can be charged with DUI while under the influence of marijuana, cocaine, prescription medications or even medications that are bought over the counter. Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence is considered a criminal offense. If you are convicted of DUI charges, having that conviction on your record may result in fines, a loss of employment, loss of insurance and your driver’s license, as well as jail time and required community service hours. If you are a college student, a conviction may even get you kicked out of school.
But even if you are charged with an alcohol related offense, you have the right to an attorney.
At the Law Offices of Steven E. Kellis, we specialize in DUI defense cases. Mr. Kellis has over 20 years of experience, and he knows DUI and DWI law. Because he has been on both sides of the courtroom, he will diligently defend his clients. If you or a loved one has been accused of an alcohol related incident, Steve Kellis will fight on your side. Call today to make an appointment for a free initial consultation. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.