New details have emerged in the rollover car crash and DUI arrest of Tiger Woods in Florida, offering a clearer — if troubling — picture of the circumstances surrounding the crash and the latest chapter in the golf legend’s ongoing personal struggles.
According to an arrest affidavit released Tuesday morning (March 31) by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office as The Athletic reports, Woods has been charged with driving under the influence, property damage, and refusal to submit to a lawful urinalysis test in relation to the incident, which occurred on Friday March 27.
Following the crash, Woods allegedly told police that he had looked down at his phone while changing the radio station in his Range Rover just before colliding with a trailer being pulled by a Ford F-150. The impact of the collision caused Woods’ vehicle to roll onto its driver’s side, leaving him pinned in his vehicle before being assisted by the driver of the Ford truck and another bystander.
Responding officers described Woods’ condition as “lethargic,” noting additional concerning behaviour during the encounter. Woods was allegedly found with two hydrocodone pills in his pants pocket and admitted to “taking a few” when questioned about his usage of prescription medicines.
Hydrocodone, commonly known as Vicodin, is an opioid painkiller prescribed for moderate to severe pain; side effects can include drowsiness, confusion, impaired coordination, and slowed breathing — factors that can significantly impact driving ability.
Deputy Tatiana Levenar reported that Woods was “sweating profusely” despite a cool vehicle interior. “Woods’ movement was lethargic and slow,” the report read, per The Athletic. “While walking, I observed Woods limping and stumbling to the right … I asked Woods if he was able to perform tasks such as walking and lifting his leg, Woods advised he has a limp and his ankle seizes while walking.”
Woods complied with field sobriety exercises but reportedly needed repeated instruction. Due to his refusal to take a urinalysis test, it remains unclear exactly what substances were in Woods’ system at the time of his arrest. However, Woods insisted that he was not under the influence of alcohol, a claim which was backed up by the results of a breathalyser test he underwent.
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Reps for Woods did not immediately return Rolling Stone‘s requests for comment.
The incident adds to a pattern of past DUI-related issues and prescription drug struggles that have tarnished Woods’ once-wholesome public image. He has previously sought treatment for painkiller dependency following multiple surgeries.
Neither Woods nor the other driver sustained serious injuries.
Woods’ dominant golf career includes 15 major championships, second behind only Jack Nicklaus, 82 PGA Tour wins, making him a defining star within the sport — even as his personal battles have complicated his legacy and public image.
Woods’ first court date in relation to the case is scheduled for April 23.
From Rolling Stone US
