Fatal crash report finds nearly half of deadly wrecks tied to illegal drug

More than 40% of victims of fatal vehicle accidents over the past six years have had elevated levels of THC in their blood, a new study shows. The drug screenings were performed during the autopsy process.

The Wright State University-led study, which was published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons, reviewed data for 246 deceased Ohio drivers. 

The researchers found that nearly 42% tested positive for THC, with an average blood level of 30.7 ng/ML, according to a press release.

The levels found in the study were far higher than the legal limit for THC. In Ohio and Nevada, the limit is 2 ng/mL, and it is 5 ng/mL in Colorado, Washington and Nevada. Many other states have "zero-tolerance laws," which means any detectable amount of THC is grounds for a DUI charge, or may require "proof of impairment," sources state.

The research is set to be presented this week at the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Clinical Congress 2025 in Chicago.

"I was surprised to see that level," said lead author Akpofure P. Ekeh, a professor of surgery at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, in the press release. 

"An average level of 30.7 ng/mL generally means those people must have consumed marijuana at some time close to driving. This isn't about residual use; it's about recent consumption."

Dr. Laura Markley, medical director of addiction services at Akron Children's in Ohio, emphasized the dangers of driving high. 

Even amounts under the legal level may not be safe, the doctor warned.

Even those who have a high tolerance to THC will have slower reflexes, less reliable judgment and narrower focus, according to Markley.

Fox News Digital reached out to the study researchers for comment.