Hollister, CA – According to KSBW, on Tuesday evening, July 9, 2024, an adult male driver lost his life after his vehicle crashed into a pole and caught fire in Hollister.
The incident occurred around 9:10 PM at the intersection of Pinnacles National Park Highway and Hillcrest Road, typically known for their scenic routes and access to natural attractions. Authorities received multiple calls reporting that a vehicle had collided with a light pole and was engulfed in flames. Witnesses also reported that a crowd had begun to gather around the scene, drawn by the dramatic and distressing events unfolding.
Upon arrival, police found the vehicle severely damaged and wrapped around the southwest traffic light pole. The driver, an adult male, was discovered trapped inside the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene. The San Benito County Sheriff’s Office will release his identity once his family has been notified, ensuring they are informed before the public.
Eyewitnesses at the scene provided critical information to the police. They reported that the vehicle had been traveling at an excessive speed, estimated between 75 to 100 miles per hour, heading south on Highway 25 from Gilroy. As the vehicle approached the intersection at Hillcrest Road, it encountered a red light for southbound traffic, while the eastbound and westbound sides had green lights.
A vehicle traveling westbound on Hillcrest Road collided with the rear of the speeding car, causing it to spin sideways and crash into the traffic pole. This collision led to the vehicle catching fire, creating a dire situation that prevented any immediate rescue attempts.
The aftermath of the crash resulted in significant road closures. Southbound Highway 25 from Meridian Street to Park Street and Hillcrest Road from Industrial Drive to Highway 25 were closed until 12:15 AM as authorities worked to clear the scene and investigate the incident thoroughly.
It is currently unknown whether the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash.
Wrongful Death Claims
Establishing fault in a collision can depend on multiple factors. One crucial way a personal injury attorney can assist grieving families is by determining legal liability after the loss of a loved one in a traffic accident.
If another party is found to hold some responsibility for the death, the family may be eligible to file a Wrongful Death claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider. This claim can provide compensation to help cover hospital fees, burial costs, and the loss of support for the deceased’s dependents.
