Head-On Crashes in Northern California: Insights from CHP
Within a span of less than 24 hours, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) conducted investigations into two tragic head-on collisions that occurred near or on Highway 99.
The first incident occurred on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, in Turlock, where CHP officers swiftly responded to a wrong-way crash on the 99. The wrong-way driver was tragically killed in a fiery wreck, while a man and a child were transported to a local hospital for medical attention.
Later that same day, another collision occurred just before 9:30 p.m. near Wilton. In this case, it was a crossover crash. According to investigators, a 27-year-old man was traveling westbound on Dillard Road just before the highway entrance. Witnesses reported that the man was tailgating other vehicles while attempting to overtake slower cars. Tragically, as he crossed into the eastbound lane, a 37-year-old mother with her two-year-old child attempted to avoid the collision, but their vehicles collided. Both drivers lost their lives, while the toddler sustained critical injuries.
Dangerous Driving Behaviors
The Wilton Fire Department said they frequently encounter hazardous driving behaviors on rural roads. Captain Gino Buranzon expressed his dissatisfaction, stating that responding to vehicle collisions is always unwelcome, particularly when they could have been avoided.
Residents in the area observed that rural life generally moves at a leisurely pace, except for when it comes to driving. According to Billy Riemer, drivers tend to accelerate recklessly without considering the potential consequences. Riemer stressed that accidents do not occur; instead, incidents are preventable.
Wrongway Crashes
Despite these consecutive head-on collisions, the CHP said no evidence suggests an increase in wrong-way driving incidents or head-on collisions. Officer Mark Leavitt from the CHP’s South Sacramento office highlighted that wrong-way crashes are exceedingly rare, accounting for only about one-tenth of 1% of all crashes on state highways. CHP data reveals that approximately 54% of wrong-way crashes on state highways occur between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m., with around 56% taking place between Friday and Sunday.
Officer Leavitt frequently encounters impaired wrong-way drivers, and it is believed that intoxication played a role in the back-to-back head-on crashes that occurred on Tuesday.
To ensure one’s safety when confronted with a wrong-way driver, Officer Leavitt advises drivers to be cautious, as wrong-way drivers may mistakenly perceive the fast lane as their slow lane. Drivers should exercise caution when approaching hills and corners, as wrong-way drivers may not always use their headlights.
Furthermore, individuals should remain vigilant and continually scan their surroundings, including other lanes, to anticipate potential dangers or oncoming vehicles.
Preventing Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are among the most devastating and potentially fatal accidents on the road. The impact of two vehicles colliding at high speeds in opposite directions can result in serious injuries or even loss of life. However, by implementing proper precautions and adopting responsible driving habits, we can significantly reduce the occurrence of head-on collisions. Below are some critical measures and strategies to prevent these tragic accidents and ensure safer roads for everyone.
- Stay Focused and Alert – Maintaining focus while driving is essential in preventing head-on collisions. Avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, or other activities that distract your attention from the road. Avoid driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and stay mentally alert.
- Follow Traffic Rules and Signs – Obeying traffic laws and adhering to road signs and signals is crucial in preventing head-on collisions. Stay within the designated speed limits and adjust your speed according to road and weather conditions. Always use your turn signals to indicate lane changes or turns and give ample space to other vehicles.
- Practice Defensive Driving – Be aware of your surroundings, anticipate the actions of other drivers, and maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead. Watch for signs of aggressive or erratic driving behavior from other motorists and take necessary precautions to avoid conflicts.
- Stay in Your Lane – Avoid unnecessary lane changes and ensure you are driving in the correct lane in your intended direction. Be cautious while overtaking and ensure sufficient space and clear visibility to pass safely.
- Use Passing Zones Properly – When passing slower vehicles, use designated passing zones and follow the rules of the road. Ensure that the passing lane is clear and free from oncoming traffic before attempting to overtake. Always signal your intentions and return to your original lane after completing the maneuver.
- Pay Attention to Roadway Geometry -Be mindful of road characteristics and geometry, especially on rural roads. Curves, hills, and blind spots can increase the risk of head-on collisions. Reduce your speed while approaching curves and maintain control of your vehicle. Use caution while passing or driving on narrow roads, and be prepared for unexpected obstacles or oncoming traffic.
- Stay Visible and Use Proper Lighting – Ensure that your vehicle’s headlights are in proper working order and use them at the appropriate times. Use high beams on dark roads, but remember to dim them when approaching other vehicles to avoid blinding the oncoming drivers.
- Report Reckless or Dangerous Drivers – If you encounter a driver exhibiting reckless or dangerous behavior, such as erratic lane changes, excessive speeding, or driving in the wrong direction, immediately report it to the appropriate authorities. Provide them with detailed information about the vehicle, location, and any other relevant details. By reporting such incidents, you contribute to the prevention of potential head-on collisions.
Watch the animated YouTube video below to learn other ways to avoid a head-on accident.
Northern California Personal Injury Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer. If you or a loved one have suffered severe injuries or experienced the tragic loss of a family member due to a negligent driver causing a head-on collision, seeking the guidance of an experienced injury attorney is essential. Our legal team is here to assist you. Contact us today at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, compassionate advice.
With a proven track record since 1982, our dedicated injury attorneys have successfully helped numerous clients obtain maximum verdicts and settlements in cases involving injury accidents and wrongful deaths.
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