[09-05-2022] Sonoma County, CA – One Dead and Two Others Injured in a Head-On Crash in Sonoma Valley

According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), one person died, and another two were seriously injured in a head-on collision on Highway 12 in Sonoma Valley Monday, September 5, 2022.

The accident occurred at 2:34 p.m. between Glen Ellen and Kenwood, just east of Nuns Canyon Road.

According to a CHP press release, a Sonoma man driving a Mercedes sedan drifted into oncoming traffic “for unknown reasons.”

He collided with a Santa Rosa man driving a Subaru Outback. The Subaru rolled over.

The driver was pronounced deceased on the scene, and his passenger was rushed to Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Authorities have identified the deceased as a 64-year-old Santa Rosa resident by CHP officers.

The Mercedes driver was also taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

Highway 12 was closed between Arnold Drive and Dunbar Road for almost three hours Monday afternoon while officials investigated the collision.

Head-On Crash Statistics

Head-on accidents are particularly dangerous because the impact force is distributed over a much smaller area than in a side collision. This can result in serious injuries to the occupants of both vehicles. Head-on crashes are a serious problem not only in California but all over the country. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 3,631 head-on collisions in 2020.

Driver error is one of the leading causes of head-on collisions. This occurs when a driver makes a mistake while driving, such as crossing into oncoming traffic or failing to yield. Drunk driving is also a common cause of head-on collisions. When drivers are intoxicated by alcohol, they are more likely to make mistakes that can lead to a crash. Road rage is another major cause of head-on accidents. When drivers get angry and lose control, they can easily cross into oncoming traffic and cause a collision.

Unlike a rear-end crash, where the backseat and headrest protect the passenger from a major injury, a head-on collision throws the passenger forward into the airbag, seatbelt, and, if unbelted, the windshield.

Motorists not wearing a seatbelt when involved in a head-on accident face a much higher risk of death. Unsecured drivers and passengers may receive further injuries if thrown from the car during an accident.

Sonoma County Head-On Crash Lawyers

Most head-on crashes cause spine injuries, brain injuries, severe injuries, fractured bones, and even paralysis. Worse, it may result in death. If you have been in a head-on accident, you know it is a terrifying experience. The force can cause serious injuries, and the car may be trapped between the other vehicle and the guardrail or other obstructions.

If you are involved in a head-on accident, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Remain calm and do not panic. The more you panic, the more difficult it will be to think clearly.
• Check for injuries. Do not move someone who is injured unless they are in danger.
• Call for help. If you can do so, call 911 and report the accident.
• Do not exit your vehicle until it is safe to do so. Wait for emergency personnel to arrive before getting out of your car.
• If you are injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Do not wait to see if your injury improves; it may only worsen.
• You may also seek compensation for your injuries or wrongful death.

However, the injuries sustained in a head-on collision demand extensive investigation and evaluation. Make sure the law firm you pick has substantial expertise dealing with head-on crashes and the capabilities to take your case to trial if necessary. A competent lawyer can properly show fault, deal with insurance companies, file a claim, and, if necessary, fight for your rights in court.

Our Sonoma County head-on accident attorneys at Arash Law can assist you in receiving compensation for all of the damages to which you are entitled. Our legal team has extensive experience helping clients in defending their rights.

Please call us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our online intake form for a free and thorough case examination.