[06-05-2020] Santa Barbara, CA – One Man Killed in a Head-On Collision on Highway 154

A 31-year-old man identified as Michael Kai Liu was killed after a head-on traffic collision on Highway 154 on Friday morning, June 5th.

One Man Killed in a Head-On Collision on Highway 154
Photo by Santa Maria Times

According to the initial reports from the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, the fatal accident happened at around 10:45 a.m. on Highway 154 and East Camino Cielo.

A green Hyundai Sonata driven by Liu and a Toyota pickup truck was involved. The pickup truck was traveling eastbound on Highway 154 when it suddenly crossed the double yellow lines and drove into the pathway of a westbound Hyundai Sonata. The two vehicles then collided into each other head-on. The Hyundai flipped over due to the collision.

Due to the severity of the impact, the pickup truck driver had to be extricated from the wreckage by first responders. He sustained severe injuries and was rushed to the Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital to receive treatment. The pickup truck driver was later arrested on suspicion of felony DUI.

The driver of the Hyundai was pronounced dead at the scene.

DUI Accident Investigation is Underway

Local authorities are investigating the case and will attempt the cause and the circumstances that led to the fatal accident. Witnesses that can provide additional information about the accident are urged to contact the police at 805.967.1234.

Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most reckless and irresponsible things a driver can do. It won’t put their lives in danger, but it can potentially endanger other people’s lives.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 30 people in the U.S. die every day due to drunk driving accidents. Drunk driving accounts for about 29 percent of all motor vehicle accident fatalities in the U.S. Around sixty-one percent of these drivers have a Blood Alcohol Content of .08 percent or higher.

When facing cases like this, it’s vital to have an experienced Santa Barbara DUI accident attorney specializing in fatal pedestrian accidents to conducts an independent investigation. They can re-interview important witnesses, review relevant surveillance footage from the scene, and obtain the responsible party’s phone and texting records.

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Wrongful Death Attorney for Victims of DUI Accidents in Santa Barbara

The victim’s family is encouraged to pursue a wrongful death claim with their attorney’s help while waiting for the results of the official investigation. Through the wrongful death claim, the victim’s family can seek financial compensation for the damages such as funeral costs, loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma that the fatal accident has caused them.

Attorneys can serve as a compassionate, helpful legal guide during this difficult time for the grieving family. They will vigorously fight for their client’s rights and best interests while ensuring that the liable party will be held accountable for their negligence. Attorneys can also negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of their clients to make sure that they are compensated fairly.

If you have a nagging suspicion that someone is to blame for the death of your spouse or family member, contact Arash Law. We have the resources you need to pursue justice for wrongful death and the experience to ensure that you get fair compensation. We’re conveniently located throughout California, with offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego, and are happy to visit you at your home or office. Call (888) 488-1391 for a FREE Consultation with a wrongful death attorney in California.

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