SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, CA (AUGUST 19, 2023): A collision on the 154 Highway early Saturday morning left one person dead and five others hospitalized, according to the Santa Barbara Fire County Department.
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The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. just north of San Antonio Creek Road when a Nissan Altima an Infinity SUV collided. The male passenger of the Altima, the sole occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Five adults occupied the Infinity SUV, all being transported to Cottage Hospital for treatment. Two were deemed in critical condition and the remaining three with moderate injuries.
The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate further details regarding the nature of the collision. The name of the deceased remains confidential pending notification of the man’s next of kin.
Liability In Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our condolences to the family and friends of the man 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 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.
