On Friday, Tiger Woods found himself in a troubling situation. He told police he was changing the radio on his phone when his black Range Rover hit a pickup truck. This crash caused his car to roll over.
According to the police report, Woods appeared fatigued during questioning. He had two hydrocodone pills in his pocket. At 50 years old, he now faces charges of driving under the influence, property damage, and refusing a urine test. His lawyer, Douglas Duncan, entered a not guilty plea and requested a jury trial.
Deputy Tatiana Levenar noted that Woods was sweating heavily, despite being in a cool police vehicle. Woods explained that he didn’t see the truck had slowed down because he was looking at his phone. Officers observed several signs that indicated he wasn’t fully alert.
During a DUI investigation, Woods had to perform sobriety tests. When asked about his medical history, he mentioned seven back surgeries and over 20 leg operations. He wore a compression sleeve on his right knee and displayed difficulty moving. “He limped and stumbled while walking,” the report stated.
When officers asked him to remove his sunglasses, they noticed his eyes were bloodshot. Woods insisted he hadn’t drunk any alcohol, which matched his breathalyzer results. However, when questioned about medication, he admitted to taking several prescriptions earlier that day, but the specifics were redacted in the report.
Woods followed instructions during the sobriety tests but needed frequent reminders. According to the affidavit, officers felt his ability to drive was impaired. He was arrested after two pills were found during a search.
Hydrocodone, a common prescription painkiller, is sometimes known by its brand name, Vicodin. This isn’t Woods’ first run-in with such issues. In 2017, he was found asleep at the wheel and tested positive for hydrocodone and several other substances. He sought treatment afterward.
The precise substances in Woods’ system during the latest incident remain unknown, since he refused the urine test. His first court date is scheduled for April 23.
The collision occurred when a Ford F-150, signaling to turn, slowed down. Woods’ vehicle collided with the truck, causing it to flip onto its side. Fortunately, neither driver reported injuries. However, Woods had to exit through the passenger side, as his door was trapped.
Recent statistics show that incidents involving prescription drug impairment are increasing. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, impairment from drugs surpassed that from alcohol in several states. Awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and substance use continues to grow, highlighting the need for safer driving practices.
It’s a reminder that even public figures like Woods are not immune to challenges. His story resonates with many who face similar struggles, emphasizing the importance of support and understanding in the journey to recovery.
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