[09-23-2024] Santa Barbara County, CA – Woman Killed, Man Critically Injured After Two-Vehicle Head-On Collision on Highway 135 in Orcutt

A woman was killed and a man was critically injured after a two-vehicle head-on collision on Highway 135 in Orcutt, Santa Barbara County, on Monday, September 23, 2024.

The California Highway Patrol reported that the collision occurred shortly before noon at the intersection of Highway 135 and East Foster Road.

CHP officers identified the drivers involved in the crash. Jordan G., 26, of Santa Maria, was driving a 2020 Nissan Altima northbound on Highway 135 near the Foster Road intersection. Meanwhile, a 2015 Honda Civic, driven by a 79-year-old Santa Maria woman, was traveling south on Highway 135 in the right turn lane.

For reasons yet to be determined, the Nissan drifted to the left, crossing into the southbound lanes, then struck the Honda head-on.

Responding crews from the Santa Barbara County Fire Department extricated one of the drivers from their heavily damaged vehicle.

Both individuals sustained major injuries and were transported to Marian Regional Medical Center by American Medical Response ambulance, according to County Fire spokesperson Karen Cruz-Orduña.

Tragically, the driver of the Honda sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead after being transported to the hospital.

CHP investigators are currently looking into the cause of the collision.

No further details were immediately available.

Call The Experienced Car Accident Lawyers In Santa Barbara County

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Consult with one of our personal injury attorneys, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., for guidance on your car accident case. Arash Law is ready to assist you!

Our trusted Santa Barbara County car accident lawyers will evaluate your case, discuss the next steps, and consider all factors that could impact your settlement amount. Moreover, they can help you obtain additional information or a police report if needed.

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What To Do After A Car Accident In Santa Barbara County

Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming and stressful. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, it’s important to know how to respond and protect yourself legally and medically. Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can help ensure your safety, preserve crucial evidence, and streamline the claims process.

1. Remain at the scene and check everyone’s condition. First, check yourself for injuries, then others. Stay composed and try to regain your calm.
2. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road, turn on your emergency flashers to alert other drivers, and find a safe place to wait for the police.
3. Report your accident to the authorities as soon as possible. The police will document the incident and gather information for an official record.
4. Share names, phone numbers, and insurance details with the other driver(s). If possible, take photos of the vehicles, license plates, and other critical details.
5. When talking to the police or others involved, avoid admitting fault or apologizing. Stick to the facts when describing the incident.
6. Visit a hospital or your primary doctor immediately. Prompt medical care can help mitigate injury effects and identify internal injuries.
7. California insurers have deadlines for reporting accidents. Contact your insurer promptly and follow the agent’s instructions.
8. You may receive a call from the other party’s insurer soon after the accident. Be cautious with the information you share. Do not record statements or accept settlement offers before consulting an attorney.
9. Keep all accident-related documents, including police reports, medical bills, and other important information, organized in a file.
10. If in doubt, call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation. We can assess your case, assist with insurance communications, and help you file a personal injury claim if necessary. Our California car accident lawyers are here to support you and address your concerns.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

In Santa Barbara, 472 people died or were injured in traffic accidents in 2021, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). Thirty-two of these traffic victims were pedestrians. Additionally, 180 involved alcohol, while 211 were overspeeding cases.

The National Safety Council (NSC) estimated 44,450 fatal crashes in 2023. It is a 4% decrease from 2022 when 46,270 people died from motor vehicle accidents. Collisions between motor vehicles occur more often and account for 43% of all traffic incidents. These also lead to 63% of all traffic injuries. Angle crashes led to around 9,000 deaths, followed by head-on collisions with an estimated 5,900 fatalities.