A pedestrian lost their life in a fatal accident involving a passenger vehicle that occurred on Friday night. The accident happened before 11:30 p.m. in the northbound lanes of Highway 101 around the area of Cat Canyon on the night of September 22, 2023.
According to a report by KSBY, a pedestrian was walking along the highway in the area when they were suddenly struck by a motor vehicle due to unknown reasons. It is believed that the driver of the vehicle remained on scene.
Paramedics and numerous other Santa Maria responders were dispatched to the scene after the accident. The pedestrian, who has not yet been formally identified, was tragically pronounced deceased on scene due to their injuries. Nobody else was reportedly hurt in the collision.
Police blocked off all lanes of Highway 101 in the area for several hours as they worked to clear the scene.
California Highway Patrol officials continue their investigation into the circumstances leading up to the accident.
Pedestrian Accident Dangers in Santa Maria
Santa Maria has been dubbed one of the fastest-growing cities in Santa Barbara County. With various wineries, theatres, and places to eat, it is no surprise that individuals walk from one place to another every hour of the day.
In 2022, the Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) in California reported that a total of 33 accidents involving pedestrians took place in Santa Maria alone. Out of these accidents, a total of 35 individuals sustained injuries either minor or severe in nature.
Because pedestrians have virtually no protection from harm when involved in an accident with any type of vehicle, they are likely to become seriously injured or even killed in an accident. Families have many options for recovery if they have lost a loved one suddenly in a pedestrian collision.
A word for families who have lost loved ones in Santa Maria pedestrian accidents…
Losing a loved one in a fatal pedestrian accident can be a devastating experience for a family. These accidents happen so unexpectedly, leaving families with immense grief as they question how they will afford the many bills that keep piling up. After you have sustained these enormous losses, it is important to know that you have many legal options.
You can read more about the legal recourse that you can receive through a pedestrian accident claim in Santa Maria and all areas of Santa Barbara County.
