Lake Elsinore Man's Death Triggers Valuable Conversation

A Lake Elsinore man has been laid to rest, but circumstances surrounding his death have sparked discussion over the dangers of driving while under the influence of prescription medications.

James Ryan, 66, died Dec. 31, just 10 days following

According to the California Highway Patrol, Ryan was driving westbound on the curving highway when he struck the deputy’s car. Just prior to the crash, Ryan’s vehicle was spotted weaving on the roadway by witnesses, the CHP reported.

The crash seriously injured Ryan, but the deputy was unhurt.

Shortly after the crash, family members said Ryan had been recently diagnosed with small cell carcinoma that had spread to his brain, and was taking prescription medications for his condition. Doctors, according to family, had not warned about impairment caused by the drugs.

When Ryan was transported to the hospital after the crash, he was allegedly found to be under the influence of prescription medications. California Highway Patrol Officer Nathan Baer said after the crash that Ryan had been arrested, cited and released to Inland Valley Medical Center for care. 

The citation was for driving under the influence of medication.

When he was diagnosed with his disease in late 2011, Ryan had only been given a few months to live, according to family. Although he survived longer than expected, Ryan's doctors said the crash probably helped end his life, according to his family who expressed gratitude that no one else was seriously hurt in the tragic accident.

They also expressed concern that not everyone may be aware of the dangers of driving under the influence of prescription medications.

According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles California Driver Handbook, “all medications, prescription or over-the-counter, are potentially dangerous.”

The handbook warns that the use of any drug that impairs your ability to drive safely is illegal. The literature also reminds drivers that the law does not distinguish between prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal drugs, so whether it’s alcohol or cold medicine that impairs your driving, you could land in jail -- or worse -- if you’re caught driving under the influence.

“It is your responsibility to know the effects of the medications you take,” the handbook advises.

Officer Baer echoed the literature. At the time of the crash involving Ryan, he said, “This is an example that impairment can come in other forms other than alcohol or illegal drugs. Doctor prescribed medication can impair a person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle. The CHP urges patients to consult with their doctors about the side effects and impairments that are caused by prescribed drugs.”