Pescadero, CA – A single-vehicle collision early Monday morning, January 6, 2024, in San Mateo County claimed the life of a driver when a vehicle struck a tree and was split in half, according to KRON.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that the accident occurred at approximately 1:40 AM on Highway 1 near Bean Hollow Road, just north of the coastal town of Pescadero.
Emergency responders arrived to find a Toyota Camry completely severed, with its back end and front section scattered at the scene. The driver, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The CHP has not yet released the identity of the deceased.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the car was traveling north on Highway 1 when it crossed over the double yellow lines before veering right and colliding with a tree on the shoulder. Speed is being examined as a potential factor, though investigators noted that dense fog reported in the area earlier was not present when officers arrived.
The wreckage was removed using a flatbed tow truck, and Highway 1 was closed in both directions for several hours to allow for investigation and cleanup. The road was reopened at approximately 5:42 AM.
The CHP continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the crash.
Single-Vehicle Collisions and Comparative Negligence
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility.
California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages. A personal injury attorney can play a critical role in sorting through these details to help victims and their families get the compensation they deserve.
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact Maison Law for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
Martin Gasparian is the founder of Maison Law, a California Personal Injury Law Firm. Martin is a graduate of Georgetown University Law School and has been practicing law in California 2004. His practice focuses on helping injury victims know their rights and recover just compensation.