A head-on collision on Highway 1 near Constellation Road in Vandenberg Village, Santa Barbara County, resulted in one fatality and left another person critically injured on Tuesday morning, December 24, 2024.
According to the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, the crash occurred at approximately 10:00 a.m. in the northbound lanes of Highway 1.
One vehicle overturned during the collision, requiring heavy extrication to remove a trapped passenger.
One individual was pronounced dead at the scene. Their identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
A second individual sustained major injuries and was transported by AMR ambulance to the Lompoc Airport, where they were airlifted by county helicopter to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. Further details about their condition have not been disclosed.
The California Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the collision.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.