Driver Killed, Another Arrested Following Santa Barbara DUI Crash on Carrillo Street near Miramonte Drive
Santa Barbara, California (November 15, 2021) – A driver was killed and another was arrested following a head-on collision in Santa Barbara on Sunday night, authorities said.
The deadly crash happened at around 8:20 p.m. on Carrillo Street, just east of Miramonte Drive.
According to the authorities, Jose Fermin Lopez Jr., 24, of Santa Barbara, was driving a Nissan sedan westbound on Carrillo Street at a high rate of speed and without headlights on when he allowed the vehicle to veer into the eastbound lane.
The Nissan then collided head-on with a Mercedes sedan.
Santa Barbara Head-On Crash Kills 1
The driver of the Mercedes was taken to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. His name has not been disclosed pending notification of next of kin.
Lopez Jr. was also taken to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital to be treated for their injuries before being arrested on suspicion of felony driving under the influence causing death and vehicular manslaughter.
No further details regarding the collision were immediately provided.
The crash remains under investigation.
Traffic Collisions in California
California is among the states that record the highest number of traffic collisions every year. Most of the accidents are caused by avoidable human factors, including distracted driving, speeding, traffic violation, drunk driving, following too closely, and more. Other factors such as bad weather and slick roads also cause car accidents but to a lesser degree.
While most of the auto accidents cause property damage and minor injuries only, high-impact collisions almost always result in major injury or fatality.
Collisions resulting in major injuries are life-altering, and proper legal action should be taken to alleviate the effects of such accidents.
Call a California Car Accident Lawyer Today
Sustaining severe injuries in a car accident is a regrettable event that needs serious legal action. Our auto accident attorney insists on the need to immediately initiate a legal process to defend your rights after being involved in a traffic collision.
The best way to start the process is by consulting with a professional car accident lawyer. An attorney will examine your car accident and advise on the options you have.