The man accused of critically injuring a Nassau County crossing guard in Merrick has pleaded not guilty and bail was set at $500,000 cash.

Joshua Alvarado, 30, admitted that he took Xanax, Tramadol and Clonazepam, according to court documents.

Alvarado was traveling east on Sunrise Highway around 8 a.m. Thursday when he turned left on Merrick Avenue, drove on the curb and struck the 70-year-old crossing guard, documents say.

The injuries were severe and included head fractures, chest trauma and blood loss.

According to court records, there is video surveillance showing the crash.

The prosecutor said Alvarado had been headed to the Wantagh Inn to do work as an exterminator. Prior to the crash, the prosecutor said he was passed out at a red light.

Alvarado's attorney says his client takes medication to help him sleep at night, due to PTSD from a stranger assault years ago.