[03-16-2025] Monterey County, CA – One Killed, Several Injured After Three-Vehicle Crash on Highway 101 Near Soledad

A fatal three-vehicle crash in Soledad left one person dead and multiple others injured on Sunday evening, March 16, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash was reported around 7:44 p.m. on southbound Highway 101 north of Front Street.

A Subaru Impreza carrying three males from Salinas was involved in the collision. The driver, identified as 25-year-old Uriel M., and the front passenger were ejected from the vehicle.

The driver succumbed to his injuries, while the front passenger sustained major injuries. The rear passenger suffered minor injuries and was not ejected.

A black Audi SUV carrying two adults and two children was also involved in the crash. All occupants sustained minor injuries. The third vehicle, occupied by two people, resulted in only the driver suffering minor injuries.

Authorities found alcohol at the scene, but no arrests have been made for driving under the influence. CHP continues to investigate the cause of the collision.

Speak With Skilled Car Accident Lawyers in Soledad, CA

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Let our experienced personal injury attorneys, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., provide the legal guidance you need. At Arash Law, we are dedicated to helping accident victims pursue justice.

Our Soledad car accident lawyers will carefully assess your case, outline the next steps, and consider all factors that may influence your settlement. We can also assist in obtaining police reports and other key documentation to strengthen your claim.

With a proven history of success, our legal team has secured over $750 million in compensation for accident victims.

Call (888) 488-1391 today or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form to schedule a free consultation with a top-rated car accident attorney.

What To Do After A Car Accident In Soledad, CA

A car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but taking the right steps immediately afterward can help safeguard your well-being, protect your legal rights, and simplify the claims process.

Whether you have been injured or are seeking justice for a loved one, here are the critical actions to take following a car accident.

1. Stay At The Scene And Check For Injuries
   First, assess yourself for injuries, then check on others involved. Stay calm and composed, and focus on ensuring everyone’s safety.
2. Report The Accident To The Authorities
   Contact the police as soon as possible. They will document the incident and gather information for an official accident report.
3. Move To A Safe Location
   If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road and use your emergency flashers to alert other drivers. Wait in a safe area for the authorities to arrive.
4. Exchange Information
   Share your name, phone number, and insurance details with the other driver(s). If you can, take photos of the vehicles, license plates, and other important details, such as the scene of the accident.
5. Be Mindful Of What You Say
   When speaking with the police or others involved, avoid admitting fault or apologizing. Stick to the facts when discussing the accident to prevent complications later.
6. Seek Medical Attention
   Even if injuries seem minor, visit a hospital or your primary doctor immediately. Prompt medical care can prevent injuries from worsening and identify hidden or internal damage.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
   California insurers have deadlines for reporting accidents. Contact your insurer promptly and follow their instructions for filing a claim.
8. Be Cautious With The Other Party’s Insurer
   You may be contacted by the other driver’s insurance company shortly after the accident. Be cautious about what you share, and avoid giving recorded statements or accepting any settlement offers without consulting an attorney first.
9. Keep All Accident-Related Documentation
   Organize and retain all paperwork related to the accident, including police reports, medical bills, and any correspondence with insurers.
10. Contact Us For Legal Support
    If you’re unsure of your next steps, call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation. Our California car accident lawyers can evaluate your case, assist with insurance communications, and help you file a personal injury claim if necessary. We are here to support you every step of the way.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

Based on data released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 2022, motor vehicle accidents accounted for 20% of the total preventable injury-related deaths in the United States. This highlights the significant impact of road safety on public health.

In 2023, traffic safety saw a slight improvement. Approximately 19,515 deaths involving traffic crashes were recorded from January to June 2023, reflecting a 3.3% decrease compared to the 20,190 deaths reported in the first half of 2022. This reduction suggests progress in traffic safety initiatives, although fatalities remain a critical concern.

According to the latest Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) data, there were 19 crashes in Soledad in 2023 that resulted in injuries or fatalities. At the national level, NHTSA reports indicate that distracted driving, speeding, and alcohol impairment continue to be leading factors in motor vehicle accidents, contributing to the bulk of both injuries and fatalities.