[09-20-2025] Santa Cruz County, CA – Woman Killed in Head-On Collision on State Route 9 Near Brackney Road in Ben Lomond

An 80-year-old woman was killed in a head-on collision in Ben Lomond, Santa Cruz County, on Saturday morning, September 20, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, officers responded around 8:20 a.m. on State Route 9 just south of Brackney Road.

The woman, driving a 1967 Volkswagen Beetle northbound, collided with a southbound Toyota Sequoia driven by a 24-year-old woman. Despite life-saving efforts at the scene, the driver of the Volkswagen sustained major injuries and was pronounced deceased.

The driver of the Toyota was not injured. CHP stated that the cause of the collision is under investigation, and it is currently unknown whether drugs or alcohol were factors.

Authorities continue to investigate the crash.

Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers In Santa Cruz County, CA

Car accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities, leaving families and loved ones with emotional, physical, and financial challenges. Understanding potential legal options may help families make informed decisions after such a collision.

Our car accident lawyers in Santa Cruz County can assist with reviewing official reports, coordinating with insurance providers, and explaining how compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages may be pursued. Early legal guidance may help families protect evidence and better understand the legal process.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A Car Accident In Santa Cruz County, CA

Serious car accidents can have major consequences. When injuries are severe or result in a fatality, families and loved ones may face difficult decisions and challenges. Taking the right steps early can help protect legal rights and preserve important evidence.

1. Call 911 And Seek Medical Attention
   Contact emergency services immediately to ensure anyone injured receives prompt medical care.
2. Document The Scene And Vehicle Damage
   If it is safe, take photographs of the crash scene, vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Documentation may help support insurance and legal claims.
3. Collect Witness Information
   Gather names and contact details of any witnesses. Their statements can help clarify how the collision occurred.
4. Consult Car Accident Lawyers
   An attorney can explain legal options, assist with insurance communications, and help preserve time-sensitive evidence. Early guidance may help families protect their rights and ensure proper handling of the case.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic deaths in the United States decreased during the first half of 2023. About 19,515 people died in motor vehicle crashes during this period, which is roughly 3.3 percent fewer than the 20,190 deaths reported in the first half of 2022. This marks the fifth consecutive quarter of declining traffic fatalities, with decreases in both the first and second quarters of the year.

Even though more people were on the road in early 2023, the number of deadly crashes still went down. Preliminary data show that Americans drove about 35.1 billion more miles than in the same period in 2022, a 2.3 percent increase. With this higher level of driving and fewer deaths, the fatality rate dropped to 1.24 deaths per 100 million miles traveled.