With many extensive highways in the Santa Maria area, traffic is sometimes at an all-time high. Traffic jams, roadwork, and construction can make major highways feel like a danger zone for motorcyclists. With very little protection from the roadway, a motorcyclist is constantly aware of what is happening around them in and out of traffic. However, even the simplest road mistake could lead to a collision with lasting consequences.
Especially in major collisions such as a head-on crash, a motorcyclist’s life could be at risk. Due to the force of these accidents, as many as 10% of these collisions end in fatality. Thousands of victims are also seriously injured in these accidents each year.
Victim Killed in Motorcycle Collision in Santa Maria
A motorcycle accident on Saturday evening took the life of a motorcyclist and sparked a vegetation fire in Santa Maria. According to KEYT, the collision took place at 6:46 p.m. at 9100 Highway 166 near the area of Chimineas Ranch Road on July 29, 2023.
When emergency responders arrived on scene, they discovered that a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle collided head-on with one another on the highway headed eastbound from the New Cuyama area due to reasons that are still under investigation. Following the collision, the motorcycle caught on fire and set an area of vegetation off the highway on fire.
The motorcyclist was tragically pronounced dead at the scene due to traumatic injuries caused by the accident. One individual was trapped inside their vehicle and had to be extricated by fire crews. The victim was transported to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital with critical injuries but their current condition is not known.
Due to the severity of the fire, SBC Fire states that 2 to 3 acres burned until the fire was put out at 7:36 p.m. California Highway Patrol officials closed down Highway 166 for several hours until the road was reopened.
Families Receiving Compensation After a Fatal Santa Maria Motorcycle Accident
Families are often left in a difficult position that extends beyond grief following a fatal motorcycle collision. It is not uncommon for families to be left with extensive bills following one of these accidents, from medical bills that a loved one sustained before their passing to lost wages from missed work. Unfortunately, families may not receive the damages they thought that they were entitled to from the insurance company. This can add stress and worry to the lives of family members.
It is also important to note that there are limitations on who can file a wrongful death claim on behalf of a loved one after a fatal motorcycle accident. Some of the following parties may find that they are eligible to bring a claim:
- Parents of the deceased
- Spouse of the deceased
- Children of the deceased
- Personal representative of the victim’s estate
By speaking with an attorney, a family can ensure that their rights are being protected as they navigate the legal system in Santa Maria.
Contact a Santa Maria Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Losing a loved one is one of the most devastating things that a family could experience. Speaking with a Santa Maria motorcycle accident attorney can help you gain a better understanding of the legal system and provide you with the resources that you and your family need. In some cases, the liable party is unclear and an attorney will be able to investigate every aspect of your case to determine who is responsible. From there, you can get started on seeking compensation for your losses.
You should immediately contact attorney Martin Gasparian for a case evaluation that is completely free and confidential. We believe that families should never have to go without after a fatal accident and should also have the time to grieve their immense losses. Having an attorney who cares about the Santa Maria community and our clients can give you peace at mind during one of the most challenging things that you have ever faced. We will do everything we can to help your family as we compassionately represent you.
