Santa Maria, CA – A 21-year-old man from Santa Maria lost his life in a three-vehicle crash late Saturday night, September 7, 2024, on West Main Street, just west of Hansen Way. The collision involved a Nissan Kick driven by the young man and a 2016 Dodge Journey carrying three passengers, including an infant, according to KSBW.
The accident occurred when the driver of the Nissan attempted to pass over double yellow lines and swerved into the left-turn lane. His vehicle collided with the Dodge Journey, which was traveling in the opposite direction. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles, and the force of the collision left the Nissan driver with fatal injuries.
Emergency responders arriving at the scene found the male driver of the Nissan unresponsive. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The passengers of the Dodge Journey, including the infant, sustained moderate to minor injuries. They were transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) believes alcohol may have been a factor in the crash, though an investigation is still underway to determine the exact circumstances. Inside the community, the news of the young man’s death has left many shocked and saddened.
Personal Injury Claims
After a vehicular accident, victims and their families often face not only emotional distress but also the sudden financial burdens of medical bills, loss of income during recovery, and, in tragic cases, burial expenses.
These costs should be borne by those responsible for causing the injuries and their insurance provider. However, insurance companies typically try to minimize the compensation for any claim they cannot deny. This is why having the assistance of a skilled personal injury attorney is crucial to ensuring justice for victims of vehicular accidents.
California DUI Law
Section 23153(a) of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) states that it is illegal for any driver to “Operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to someone else.”
