[09-29-2022] Monterey County, CA – One Person Killed, Another Injured in Fatal Head-On Crash on Northbound Highway 101

One person was left dead, and another driver suffered minor injuries following a fatal head-on collision in south Monterey County on Thursday afternoon, September 29, 2022.

The crash occurred around 2:35 p.m. on southbound Highway 101 at Underwood Road just south of Greenfield.

Highway 101 was closed in Underwood, between Greenfield and King City, according to Caltrans. To the exit on First Street in King City, northbound traffic is being detoured. Highway 101’s southbound only has one open lane, which slows traffic.

The California Highway Patrol claims that a high-speed chase involving CHP officers led to the accident. The officers started their high-speed pursuit south of Salinas.

A Toyota Prius was being pursued by police. According to the CHP, the driver of the Prius struck a tractor-trailer head-on after crossing the median in the Underwood area.

The sole occupant of the Prius, the driver, died at the scene. The tractor-trailer’s driver sustained minor injuries.

The CHP anticipates that Highway 101 northbound will remain completely closed until at least 12:00 a.m.

Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash Statistics

When it comes to fatalities and serious injuries, car accidents top the list in the United States. Every year, automobile accidents directly cause the deaths or permanent disability of around 200,000 people.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, every 60 seconds, on average, there is a car crash in the United States. More than 3,300 people were killed in vehicle collisions in California last year.

According to the National Safety Council, about one in ten deaths in the United States happens in a car. California saw 3,898 deaths and over 2,765,000 injuries due to traffic accidents so far in 2019. Injuries and fatalities caused by automobiles have risen by 23.5% since 2013.

Things like broken-down cars, debris, and drivers who are drunk or distracted all fall into this category.

Monterey County Car Accident Lawyers

Wrongful death lawsuits allow victims’ families to seek compensation for their losses.

Arash Law can advise you on how to proceed with your claim if you are unsure of what steps to take next. We have helped our clients obtain over $500 million in verdicts and settlements.

Our Monterey County car accident lawyers at Arash Law will help you pursue a claim for damages against the negligent party and secure the financial compensation you need and deserve. Having legal representation improves a person’s chances of coming out on top in a difficult situation.

Contact our law firm today by calling (888) 488-1391 or using our online form to request a free consultation with our attorneys.