Shocking accident on the A9: Audi driver under the influence of drugs injures three!

Shocking accident on the A9: Audi driver under the influence of drugs injures three!

On the night of June 8, 2025, a serious traffic accident occurred on the A9 motorway near Denkendorf in which an 18-year-old driver from the Eichstätt district lost control of his Audi. The incident happened around 11 p.m. when the young driver, due to improper speed, collided with a BMW driven by a 31-year-old man from Munich. In the accident, the 18-year-old, his 16-year-old passenger and a 32-year-old passenger in the BMW were slightly injured and had to be taken to nearby hospitals. The material damage amounts to a total of 52,000 euros, both vehicles were totaled and several parts of the guardrail were damaged. Due to the rescue work, the right and middle lane had to be closed for around two hours while the Kinding fire department took over the safety measures.

The police discovered evidence of possible cannabis consumption by the Audi driver. A blood sample was ordered in the hospital. Criminal proceedings were initiated against the 18-year-old driver for endangering road traffic and negligent bodily harm. Experts warn that the legalization of cannabis, which has been observed in various countries, including the USA, may have a potentially negative impact on road safety.

Cannabis legalization context

A study by the Düsseldorf Institute for Competition Economics (DICE) predicts annual tax revenue of around 4.7 billion euros in Germany from cannabis legalization. However, data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shows that this legalization may also lead to an increase in traffic accidents and deaths. In an analysis of five U.S. states where marijuana is legal for those 21 and older, it was found that after legalization, traffic accident injuries increased by 5.8% and fatal accidents increased by 4.1%. In the comparison group without legalization, however, no increase was observed.

Additionally, the results show an increase in injury rates even before retail sales began, with a 6.5% increase after legalization and a 0.7% decrease after retail sales began. These statistical findings provide valuable information and make it clear that despite possible social benefits, such as reducing the stigma towards cannabis users, the danger on the roads caused by cannabis consumption should not be underestimated. It is recommended that states considering legalization adopt strict laws and penalties against driving under the influence and provide the necessary resources to enforce these measures.

The events in Denkendorf are a dramatic example that brings the current discussions about cannabis and the associated risks into focus. The collision highlights the need for careful consideration of the consequences that legalization on the roads could bring.

For more information on the impact of cannabis legalization on traffic accidents and safety issues, please visit the articles on Research and knowledge and Pfaffenhofen Today.