A teenager pleaded not guilty to a charge of Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) by drugs in Brentwood on Long Island. Police alleged that marijuana use was to blame for a deadly car accident that killed a 4-year-old girl.

Christian Yanes, 19, was allegedly high on marijuana when he fatally struck the child with his 2018 Honda Civic. The collision occurred in front of the girl’s home while she was playing in the yard. Suffolk County police said Yanes was heading north on Fulton Street at about 6:50 p.m.

The child was pronounced dead at Southside Hospital in Bay Shore. Yanes was arrested after he allegedly provided a verbal admission and written statement to the police.

It was unclear whether Yanes faced additional charges besides DWAI by drugs. He was arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip and released from police custody after being ordered to wear a monitoring bracelet.

Many New Yorkers may not realize that driving while intoxicated laws are not specific to just alcohol. They also apply to driving while impaired by drugs, even when they are legal prescription medications. A person whose driving abilities are impaired through the use of drugs, or a combination of alcohol or drugs, may be charged with a DWAI.

Brill Legal Group handles all types of DWI and DWAI charges. Not only do our Long Island defense attorneys have an in-depth knowledge of the law, but we also have the experience necessary to get the best outcomes for our clients. Call today for a free consultation.