Pedestrian Struck by Driver Under the Influence of Drugs

Jul 29,2016

A driver who struck a pedestrian in Victorville Wednesday night was arrested for driving under the influence of prescription medication. Around 9:57 p.m., 46-year-old Ray Batarse struck a 34-year-old on the 13000 block of Fern Pine Street. The victim was standing outside of his parked car when he was struck. Victorville Sheriff’s Station deputies say the victim tried to dodge the oncoming vehicle, but he was hit and injured.

Police arrived at the scene and found the driver was under the influence of prescription drugs. He was arrested and charged with DUI with injuries. The victim was taken to Victor Valley Global Medical Center with unspecified injuries.

Like alcohol, drugs can slow reaction times, impair judgement and influence coordination. Drugged driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. According to a 2009 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study, 18% of drivers killed in crashes tested positive for at least one drug.

“Prescription drugs and driving make for a dangerous combination. If you have to be on prescription medications that have impairment side effects, don’t get behind the wheel,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.