Derek Skinner Arrested in DUI Collision on Grimes Canyon Road [Ventura County, CA]

Ventura County, CA (August 17, 2026) — Derek Skinner allegedly caused a head-on crash late Saturday night on Grimes Canyon Road near Moorpark, leaving a California Highway Patrol officer and another person with major injuries.

The crash happened around 11 p.m. when a northbound Chevrolet pickup crossed the double yellow lines and struck a southbound CHP patrol vehicle.

The CHP officer and a 40-year-old woman riding in the pickup suffered major injuries. The pickup driver, identified as 34-year-old Derek Skinner of Santa Paula, sustained minor injuries. Medics took all three to a local hospital, where they were expected to recover.

Investigators determined that Skinner had driven while impaired and failed to maintain his lane. Authorities arrested him on suspicion of DUI causing bodily injury.

Grimes Canyon Road remained closed for nearly three hours while officers investigated the crash.

The California Office of Traffic Safety’s “Go Safely” campaign reminds everyone that driving under the influence (DUI) doesn’t just refer to alcohol. A DUI can involve any substance—including marijuana, prescription medication, over-the-counter drugs, or illegal substances—that affects your ability to drive safely. Even when taken legally, some medications can slow your reflexes, impair judgment, or make you drowsy behind the wheel.

Every driver has a role to play in preventing tragedies. Despite public awareness efforts, reckless and impaired driving continues to claim lives. In California alone, someone loses their life in a traffic crash every few hours—a heartbreaking reminder of how critical road safety truly is.

Remember, sharing the road means sharing responsibility. Stay alert, respect other drivers, and watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. A moment of care can save a life—perhaps even your own.

Never drive after drinking or using impairing substances. Impaired driving can cause devastating injuries and put everyone on the road at risk.

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Steps to Take When You’ve Been in a Car Accident

If you get into a traffic accident, it can be a frightening situation and many people do not know what to do afterwards, which may have a big impact on your safety as well as your rights.

First, assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If you can move your vehicle, do so in a safe location, and put on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. Exchange details with the other driver such as names, numbers, insurance company information, and license plate numbers. (And if there are witnesses nearby, try to get their information, too.)

Photograph the scene, damage to the vehicles and any injuries. If the damage appears to be minor, document everything anyway.

Then get medical care — even if you feel fine. Some injuries can have a delayed presentation. Lastly, reach out to a seasoned personal injury lawyer, such as Sweet Lawyers. They’ll explain your legal rights and navigate the insurance claims process, so you can focus on what’s most important.

Those minutes after a crash are critical. Staying calm, acting swiftly and figuring out what kind of aid is available could help protect your health, your finances and your future.

Get in touch with us today. Call us at (800) 674-7852 or visit our website here.