[08-03-2025] Ventura County, CA – One Killed, Another Seriously Injured in Head-On Collision on Highway 126 Near Fillmore

One man was killed and another sustained serious injuries following a two-vehicle collision on eastbound Highway 126 near Fillmore on Sunday evening, August 3, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at approximately 7:47 p.m. near the fish hatchery, east of Fillmore.

Officials stated that one of the vehicles went off the roadway, and occupants had to be extricated by emergency responders.

CHP’s investigation determined that a 53-year-old Ventura man was driving a 2019 Honda Odyssey westbound at about 60 mph when he crossed into the eastbound lane and struck a 2010 Volkswagen Passat head-on. The Passat was driven by a 71-year-old man.

The 71-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. The Honda driver was seriously injured and transported to a nearby hospital. Both drivers were trapped and required extrication with assistance from the Ventura County Fire Department and other first responders.

One of the vehicles traveled down an embankment and came to rest on the south side of the highway, according to CHP Officer Ryan Ayers.

Authorities continue to investigate the crash.

Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers In Fillmore, CA

Car accidents involving serious injuries or fatalities can leave families facing uncertainty, grief, and unexpected decisions. When a head-on collision results in significant harm, it may be important to understand your legal options.

Car accident lawyers in Fillmore can help you explore what steps may be appropriate after a crash. An attorney may assist in reviewing official documents, preserving key evidence, and offering guidance based on California law.

If the crash occurred in a nearby area, you may consider reaching out to Ventura car accident lawyers for additional local support.

Early legal support might help ease the burden as you focus on recovery or support your loved ones. Call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A Serious Car Accident In Fillmore, CA

A severe car accident can bring confusion, stress, and unanswered questions. Whether you are coping with a serious injury or mourning the loss of a loved one, knowing what steps to take may help protect your rights and guide you through the aftermath.

1. Call 911 And Seek Immediate Help
   Report the crash to emergency services. Let medical professionals assess any injuries and allow law enforcement to document the scene.
2. Secure Medical And Related Records
   Gather medical documents, hospital summaries, and other health-related paperwork. These may be important for future claims or evaluations.
3. Preserve Evidence And Personal Belongings
   If possible, keep photographs, damaged items, and anything from the scene that may offer insight into what occurred.
4. Consult With Car Accident Attorneys
   A lawyer can help clarify your rights and determine whether compensation might be available. If an older driver was involved, elderly driving accident lawyers may offer legal insight based on your situation. Those impacted in the region may also want to contact accident lawyers in Ventura for guidance rooted in local experience. Legal support may help ensure important deadlines and documentation are handled appropriately.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

In 2023, Americans spent more time on the road, driving about 35.1 billion more miles than they did during the same period in 2022. This marked a 2.3 percent increase in total miles traveled.

Despite the increase in driving, traffic deaths continued to decline. From January through June 2023, an estimated 19,515 people were killed in car accidents across the United States. That number represents a 3.3 percent drop from the 20,190 deaths reported in the first half of 2022. It also marked the fifth consecutive period with a decrease in roadway fatalities.

The fatality rate also improved. In 2023, there were approximately 1.24 deaths for every 100 million miles driven, compared to the expected rate of 1.31. These trends suggest that road safety is gradually improving, even as more vehicles return to daily travel.