Three people were injured after a semitrailer collided with a car on Highway 101 just south of Salinas on Tuesday evening, November 19, 2024.
The California Highway Patrol reported that the semitrailer was southbound on Highway 101 at around 5:32 p.m. when it made a left turn onto Somavia Road and was hit by a northbound car.
The impact caused the car, a Ford, to get stuck under the trailer. Firefighters used hydraulic rescue tools to extricate the driver, while Good Samaritans freed the toddler in the backseat. The front passenger was able to exit on his own.
The driver and passenger, both juveniles from Chualar, along with the toddler, were taken to a local hospital. One juvenile was airlifted to a trauma center, and all three are reported to be stable.
The semitrailer driver was uninjured. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, but alcohol and drugs are not believed to be factors.
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.