Man Who Killed Pedestrian in Alameda To Get 11 Years For Manslaughter

Dionisio Molina - who struck and killed a pedestrian in Alameda on July 5, 2008 - agreed to a plea deal this morning in Oakland. The pedestrian, 78 year old George Marceline, was walking at approximately 5:30 in the morning when Mr. Molina struck Mr. Marceline.

There is no indication that the pedestrian was in the street or a dangerous intersection. The defense argued that the driver was unconscious because he was taking sleeping medication, and lost control of his car.

Driving under the influence of medication is no different than driving drunk - either one can end up with people injured or even dead. So if you are under the influence of anything that might impair your ability to drive, don't drive. It's just that simple.

Pete Clancy is a personal injury lawyer in Oakland.