Santa Barbara, CA (September 13, 2023) 6 people were injured on Tuesday after a multi-vehicle collision on Highway 101 in Santa Barbara. The Santa Barbara City Fire Department reported that 1 of the 6 people was critically injured in the accident.
The crash involved 3 vehicles in the southbound lanes of Highway 101. It happened south of the Carrillo Street offramp, according to Fire Battalion Chief Michael Hoose. The collision caused a lot of debris on the highway, which led to other vehicles, not involved in the collision, being damaged.
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Two of the vehicles had occupants who were trapped inside and had to be extracted. 3 AMR ambulances were called to take all 6 patients to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital to receive treatment.
One of the vehicles ripped out a large section of guardrail on the highway. The freeway was down to a single lane following the collision as crews cleaned the highway and helped the injured.
The cause of the accident is still unknown and is under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.
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 well wishes to the 6 people injured 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 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.