Amador County, CA (August 7, 2025) — A tragic collision claimed the life of a 79-year-old Jackson woman on Thursday afternoon, when two vehicles crashed head-on along Highway 49 south of Highway 16.
Incident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol, the driver of a southbound Ford Mustang veered off the roadway into the right shoulder just after 1 p.m. The driver then overcorrected, crossing into the northbound lane where a Toyota RAV4 was traveling. The two vehicles collided, killing the Toyota driver at the scene. Authorities confirmed she was a 79-year-old woman from Jackson. The Mustang driver was airlifted to Sutter Roseville Hospital with undisclosed injuries. CHP reported that both drivers were wearing seatbelts, and it remains unclear if drugs or alcohol played a role. Highway 49 was closed in both directions for approximately two hours during the investigation.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The investigation is ongoing, and investigators will assess whether speeding, distraction, fatigue, or a medical episode contributed to the loss of control.
Pending the outcome of the investigation, the family of the victim may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim to recover damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other losses.
My condolences go out to the family and friends of the woman who lost her life.
Source: KCRA