Fatal Crash on Mount Hamilton Rd / Hwy 130 in San Jose

San Jose, CA – According to NBC Bay Area, a 58-year-old San Jose man lost his life Sunday afternoon, September 22, 2024, after his vehicle veered off Mount Hamilton Road and plunged down a steep embankment. The crash occurred along a treacherous stretch of Highway 130 near the Mount Hamilton summit, a region known for its narrow, winding roads.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded to the incident at 1:26 PM after receiving reports that a Honda Odyssey traveling westbound failed to navigate a curve. Witnesses said the vehicle was moving at around 30 mph when it left the roadway, plummeting approximately 400 feet down an embankment before striking a tree.

Firefighters and medical personnel arrived at the scene but were unable to save the driver, who was pronounced dead upon their arrival. The driver’s identity has not yet been released pending notification of the family. Mount Hamilton Road remained closed for around four hours while crews worked to recover the vehicle and clear the scene.

Investigators have determined that drugs or alcohol were not factors in the crash. However, it remains unclear why the driver was unable to navigate the curve.

Liability in Single-Vehicle Collisions

In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. A personal injury attorney plays a critical role in sorting through these details to help victims and their families get the compensation they deserve.

Once liability is determined, the attorney can negotiate with insurance companies, who often try to reduce payouts. That means having legal representation can be vital to ensure victims receive fair compensation for their loss.