Buellton, CA (November 20, 2023) A woman lost her life on Sunday afternoon in a 2-vehicle collision near Buellton, according to the Santa Barbara County Fire Department. The crash happened on Highway 101, just south of Buellton, at approximately 1:20 p.m.
It took place just north of the Nojooqui Summit, according to Captain Scott Safechuck, in the northbound lanes of Highway 101. Two vehicles were involved in the collision and one of the vehicles ended up 300 feet from the highway, in the grass. The vehicle was driven by a female, who was the only occupant, who sustained fatal injuries in the collision.
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Emergency personnel arrived at the scene and found her unresponsive. Sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Fire fighters had to extricate her body from the wreckage, according to Officer Safechuck. Her identity is being withheld until her next of kin have been notified.
The second vehicle, also driven by a female, remained on the highway. She was evaluated but wasn’t injured in the collision.
Officers had to shut down parts of the highway for a while following the crash. A tow truck was called to remove the damaged vehicle from the side of the road and crews had to clean up glass and debris from the scene. The California Highway Patrol was leading the investigation and searched the area for evidence. They are still unsure as to what exactly happened on Highway 101 on Sunday afternoon, but hope to determine the cause of this collision, as well as who was at fault.
Liability In Buellton 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 Buellton Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the woman killed in this collision on Highway 101. 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 Buellton 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.
