Butte County, CA (October 1, 2023) 1 person was killed and another injured in a major wreck on Highway 99 near Toland Road in Butte County. The California Highway Patrol said that 31-year-old Sierra Miguel from Arcata was responsible for the deadly collision.
California Highway Patrol told Action News Now that a car was traveling north on Highway 99 and crossed lanes into oncoming traffic in an attempt to pass a big rig. The car collided head-on with another vehicle that was driving in the opposite direction. The collision occurred around 11:00 a.m. and killed a young woman.
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Miguel was severely injured in the collision and taken to a local hospital in stable condition. She had a baby in the backseat of her car who was also sent to the hospital with only very minor injuries. Officers said the baby only survived because of its car seat.
It took several hours for crews to get the dead woman out of her vehicle. Two pit bulls were thrown from the vehicle and animal control had workers at the scene searching for the animals in fields near the road.
California Highway Patrol said that Miguel will be charged with manslaughter.
Liability In Butte County Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Butte County Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the person killed in this collision. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a Butte County car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.
