Daniel Landry, a 78-year-old Santa Cruz man, was killed and four others were seriously injured in a crash that occurred on Highway 17 last Saturday night.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Landry’s vehicle, a Honda Element, entered oncoming traffic near Sugarloaf Road just before 10 pm. The Honda Element collided with a Tesla Model Y, also causing a subsequent rear-end crash involving a Honda Accord.
Mr. Landry died at the scene as a result of his injuries, despite heroic life-saving efforts by bystanders and medics.
Four others, including the Tesla driver, a 19-year-old from Antioch, two passengers of the Tesla vehicle, and a female passenger from Mr. Landry’s vehicle, were hospitalized with serious injuries.
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
According to attorney Brett Schreiber of Singleton Schreiber Injury Attorneys, collisions involving wrong-way vehicles can occur for a number of reasons. “While no official cause has been released, there are many potential reasons vehicles enter or turn into oncoming traffic. It could involve weather or visibility conditions, confusion or lack of familiarity with the area, drug or alcohol impairment, or even a medical emergency.” Schreiber continued, “Whatever the reason, it’s important to remember that a person has lost their life and four others have been seriously injured.”
Options for Those Involved
In serious motor vehicle collisions like this, victims are often left with severe injuries or, as in the case of Daniel Landry, taken away from loved ones forever. Unfortunately, these situations also come with steep financial costs for medical treatment, damaged property, and lost wages. Fortunately, victims may have legal options.
“Without all of the details of the crash, it’s difficult to say what options may be available to victims in this crash,” Schreiber said. “Depending on the facts, multiple parties may be legally responsible, including the driver of the at-fault vehicle or government entities in the event that there was an issue with the roadway. It’s important that those involved speak with an attorney to help them understand their options as soon as possible.”
Singleton Schreiber Can Help
If you or a loved one were hurt in this crash, an experienced attorney may be able to help. Singleton Schreiber has helped thousands of injured Californians recover compensation for their losses. While it can be difficult to think about a potentially complex legal or insurance process, their attorneys are here to help during what can be the most difficult time in your or your loved one’s life. They offer a free and confidential case evaluation and never charge a fee unless they win.
