Santa Cruz County, CA – A fatal crash on Highway 9 in the Santa Cruz Mountains claimed the life of a 36-year-old Boulder Creek resident late Thursday night, October 17, 2024, according to KSBW.
The accident occurred around 10:17 PM when a California State Parks Ranger attempted to stop the driver of a black 2014 Mazda 3 near Two Bar Road. The driver failed to pull over, leading to a brief pursuit. During the chase, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle veered off the road and collided with a tree.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the driver was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and sustained fatal injuries upon impact. Despite efforts, the 36-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.
Highway 9, known for its winding curves through the forested Santa Cruz Mountains, was temporarily closed following the crash but has since been reopened. This stretch of road is often challenging for drivers due to its narrow lanes and sharp turns, particularly at night.
Investigators are still working to determine the exact cause of the crash, but CHP has indicated that alcohol is believed to have been a contributing factor.
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.
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.
