Santa Barbara, CA (August 22, 2023) 1 person is dead and 5 others injured after a head-on collision on Route 154. According to authorities, the crash occurred west of San Antonio Creek near Santa Barbara, shortly before 1:30 a.m. on Saturday August, 19th.
A 22-year-old from Jackson, Florida was driving a car and a 57-year-old Oxnard woman was driving an SUV. The California Highway Patrol said that car was heading west on Route 154 when it crossed the double yellow lines and ended up in the oncoming traffic lane.
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The SUV was traveling east at the same time and the two vehicles collided, head-on. The 22-year-old driver of the car, who veered into oncoming traffic, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Oxnard woman, driving the SUV, suffered major injuries in the collision. She had a passenger riding with her who also sustained serious injuries. Three other passengers in the SUV sustained minor injuries from the crash.
All 5 people in the SUV were taken to Santa Barbara Cottage hospital. The California Highway Patrol is investigating the collision to determine whether or not drugs or alcohol were a factor.
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 deepest condolences to the family of person killed in this crash, as well as well wishes to those who were injured. 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 Santa Barbara 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.
