Cambria, CA – According to The San Luis Obispo Tribune, 16-year-old Eric Aguilar from San Simeon lost his life in a devastating crash off Highway 1 near Cambria on Saturday night, September 14, 2024.
Aguilar was reported missing by his family after leaving home around 9 PM, driving his father’s truck. The family’s search for Aguilar and the vehicle throughout the night was tragically unsuccessful.
The following morning, at approximately 6:30 AM Sunday, authorities received reports of a vehicle off the side of Highway 1 north of Burton Drive. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, where they found the truck around 100 feet down an embankment, heavily damaged after colliding with several trees. The vehicle had gone off the highway and was hidden from view, which contributed to the delay in its discovery.
Aguilar’s family had already located the crash site by the time emergency personnel arrived. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the impact caused significant damage to the truck and led to fatal injuries for Aguilar, who was the sole occupant.
The exact time of the crash remains uncertain, but authorities believe it likely occurred late Saturday evening. While the primary cause of the accident appears to have been excessive speed, it is still unclear whether alcohol, drugs, or distracted driving may have been contributing factors.
Liability in Single-Vehicle Collisions
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road conditions share some responsibility. A personal injury attorney plays a critical role in sorting through these details to help victims and their families get the compensation they deserve.
Once liability is determined, the attorney can negotiate with insurance companies, who often try to reduce payouts. That means having legal representation can be vital to ensure victims receive fair compensation for their loss.
