Driver pleads guilty to marijuana charge in fatal Addison crash

A Hillside man pleaded guilty Friday to driving under the influence of marijuana in a November 2010 crash that killed 46-year-old motorcyclist from Itasca.

Michael Kainz, 22, of the 300 block of Buckthorn Lane, faces up to 14 years in prison but, by law, could receive probation if the defense proves “extraordinary circumstances” warrant it.

Kainz was turning west onto Michael Lane from northbound Addison Road in Addison when his Toyota Camry was struck by Robert Lash’s oncoming motorcycle about 6:45 a.m. Nov. 30, 2010. Kainz told police he didn’t see the motorcycle. Lash was not wearing a helmet and died of traumatic head injuries, authorities have said.

Kainz admitted smoking marijuana a couple days before the crash, DuPage County Assistant State’s Attorney Mary Cronin said Friday. Authorities said medical tests also detected the drug in his system.

Kainz, who pleaded guilty to aggravated driving under the influence, remains free on bond and returns to court Dec. 14 to set a sentencing date. His attorney could not immediately be reached for comment.