Two-Vehicle Collision on State Route 49
According to a report from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), on the afternoon of Sunday, September 26, 2021, one man was killed, and two other people suffered injuries when a two-vehicle collision occurred in Nevada County, California.
The crash took place on State Route 49 near Rincon Way at approximately 12:40 p.m. The site of the incident was north of the city of Auburn.
Details of the Incident
An official with the CHP explained that a man was driving southbound on the highway in a Honda Accord when the vehicle crossed the double yellow lines for unknown reasons. This action caused a head-on crash with a Volkswagen SUV that was heading north on the same stretch of road.
The Aftermath of the Crash
A woman had been at the wheel of the Volkswagen SUV, and she suffered injuries that were described as moderate in the impact. Sadly, the man that was in the passenger seat of the VW suffered fatal injuries. The driver of the Honda that crossed the lane lines sustained injuries described as mild to moderate.
Crash Investigation
The roadway in the vicinity of the crash was closed to traffic for more than two hours after the incident while authorities investigated the scene and cleaned up the crash debris. While the investigation into the cause of the collision continues, the CHP has indicated that neither drugs nor alcohol appears to have been a factor in the deadly incident.
Highway 49 Can be a Dangerous Road
We have written previously about State Route 49 and how it can be a dangerous road at times. It is a highway that runs north to south through California. The route played a significant role in the Gold Rush – hence the term “49ers” that was used to describe the wave of immigrants that came to the region during that time. The highway spans several counties, including Placer, El Dorado, and Yuba, ultimately reaching State Route 70 at Vinton, California. Sections of the two-lane highway often include curves. Inexperienced drivers of the area may use extra caution and slow down. Those that frequently travel in the area have more confidence and will often attempt to pass those slower vehicles. Passing on a two-lane highway always presents the risk of a head-on collision.
Of course, there are other situations that can lead to head-on collisions on two-lane roads. This recent fatal Nevada County crash appears to have been the result of a driver drifting over the lane lines, which often occurs due to driver inattention, distraction, impairment, and/or drowsiness.
Watch the YouTube video. Below is a clip showcasing vehicle travel along State Route 49, sometimes referred to as the Gold Country Highway.
Auburn Wrongful Death Attorney
Hello, and thank you for reading our legal blog. We are saddened to report on this tragic deadly crash in Nevada County. I’m Ed Smith, an Auburn wrongful death lawyer. My firm has been in practice and helping area residents for nearly four decades. We hope your family never has to experience the grief of losing a loved one in an auto accident, however if the unthinkable happens, a compassionate and skilled legal advocate can make a big difference. If another motorist’s negligence caused the accident, that party may be financially responsible for damages. Money will never end the grief, however, families are often not aware of how significantly an untimely, sudden death can affect finances. To set up a no-obligation consultation or to simply receive free and free legal advice, call to speak with one of our injury lawyers at (800) 404-5400 or (530) 392-9400. If you prefer, you may also send your inquiry via our online contact form.
Reviews from prior clients can be helpful when you are searching for trustworthy counsel. You can find our firm’s reviews on Google, Avvo, and Yelp.
Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/light-death-memorial-isolated-wax-1551386/
mm llo [cs 670] bw