Even though California has been quite progressive in legalizing medical and recreational marijuana, driving under its influence is considered a criminal offense.
According to a recent story on the ABC 10 News website, a 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of marijuana after he struck and severely injured a woman in her 20s on Monday night.
On Monday, April 3, San Ysidro Police Department dispatchers received a call just after 9;15 p.m. regarding the crash. Officers responded to the scene at the intersection of Avenida De La Madrid and Smythe Avenue.
Officials report that a woman aged 20 to 25 was crossing Avenida De la Madrid in a marked crosswalk when a 2006 BMW X3 sedan struck her. Investigators believe that the driver did not stop due to his suspected impairment.
Paramedics responded to the scene and rushed the woman to an area hospital. The victim suffered a brain bleed and is currently listed in critical condition.
San Ysidro police officers administered field sobriety tests and placed the man under arrest. His identity was not available at the time of the report.
Since no traffic cameras or witnesses were available to determine who was at fault in the crash, the accident remains under investigation.