Roads in Santa Maria are constantly busy, with passenger vehicles and trucks making their way to recreational activities and workplaces. Though increased traffic on major roadways like Highway 166 and Highway 101 is a great way to boost the economy, it also means that there could be a higher rate of accidents.
On top of the many individuals who are hurt due to serious car accidents in Santa Maria each year, many victims also lose their lives in these catastrophic accidents. Being confronted with the grief and financial trauma of a fatal accident can be challenging to handle for many families who wonder what options they have as they attempt to restore normalcy in their lives.
Woman Killed in Fatal Car Accident on Highway 166 in Santa Maria
A Labor Day accident took the life of one person on Highway 166 in Santa Maria on Monday. According to KSBY, the accident happened on Highway 166 at 12:50 p.m. around the area of Alamo Creek Road on September 4, 2023.
California Highway Patrol officials confirmed that a Chevrolet Silverado was traveling in the area when it suddenly crossed into the other lane of traffic due to unknown reasons, colliding with a Chevrolet Tahoe. A Toyota Corolla behind the Tahoe then became involved in the accident. Police also said that a bicycle on the back of the Tahoe became detached and caused a fourth vehicle to become involved in the accident.
Paramedics were dispatched to the scene to assist multiple injured victims. A 28-year-old female passenger inside the Chevrolet Silverado was tragically pronounced dead at the scene due to her injuries. The drivers of the Silverado and Tahoe were hospitalized with major injuries and the driver of the Corolla was also hospitalized with minor injuries. Nobody else was hurt as a result of the accident.
Both eastbound and westbound lanes of traffic on Highway 166 were blocked for several hours after the accident.
California Highway Patrol continues its investigation into the circumstances leading up to the collision.
Assisting Families After a Fatal Santa Maria Car Accident
The families who have suddenly had a loved one taken from them in a car accident are typically left to deal with grief on their own. When a family has dealt with these immense losses, they may only have the option to bring a wrongful death claim on behalf of their loved one. However, only certain parties are able to bring a successful wrongful death claim, such as the following:
- Parents of the deceased
- Children of the deceased
- Spouse of the deceased
- Certain other family members or a personal representative of the estate
On top of this, family members will need to comply by strict deadlines known as the statute of limitations, which gives them a limited amount of time to file a claim. Close relatives should always consider their options immediately after an accident so that they can get started on their claim for recovery.
Contact a Wrongful Death Lawyer Serving Santa Maria Victims
If you and your family have suffered the enormous loss of a loved one due to a fatal collision, the insurance company might do whatever they can to lessen your settlement amount or deny your claim altogether. While you are grieving, this can add extra stress to your life as you wonder where you will turn financially.
To make sure that you have exhausted every option, speaking with a Santa Maria wrongful death lawyer can help you protect your rights. At Maison Law, we will compassionately work with your family and ensure that you gain an understanding of the legal system and what to expect. On top of this, we can help you answer any questions that you may have. Contact us today for a free and confidential case consultation.
