Moss Landing, CA (September 20, 2024) – A serious crash occurred early Friday morning, September 20, 2024, on Highway 1 near Struve Road in Moss Landing, resulting in multiple injuries and the arrest of one driver.
Accident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the incident began when a Lexus driven by 24-year-old Jimmy Cruz of Salinas crossed over the solid double yellow line into the northbound lane at approximately 4:20 a.m. The Lexus collided head-on with a northbound Honda driven by 44-year-old Janeth Balianmachain from Marina. Balianmachain was transported to a hospital in Santa Cruz County for treatment.
After the initial collision, Cruz exited the Lexus and began walking in the northbound lane. He was hit by an Acura driven by Salvador Villacruz, 27, of Moss Landing. Cruz suffered significant injuries and was taken to Natividad Medical Center. Villacruz was also taken to Natividad Medical Center for treatment.
Investigation: Crus was later arrested for driving under the influence (DUI). The CHP investigated the accident and is encouraging anyone with additional information about the accident to contact the authorities.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination.
Cruz’s Failure to Drive Safely: Jimmy Cruz’s crossing of a solid double yellow line into oncoming traffic and subsequent arrest for DUI suggest negligence for failure to drive safely. Balianmachain and Villacruz may have grounds for personal injury claims against Cruz for the harm they suffered from the chain of events set off by his reckless actions.
Other Factors: Although Cruz’s DUI seems to have initiated the chain of events, investigators should also investigate Villacruz’s actions to determine whether he could have avoided hitting Cruz. Also, external factors, such as road conditions or vehicle malfunction, should be investigated.
Personal Injury: If negligence is found to have contributed to the accident, the injured parties may be able to file personal injury claims. Even if some bear some responsibility, such as Cruz’s DUI, California’s comparative negligence laws may still allow them to recover some compensation.
I extend my deepest sympathies to those affected by this terrible accident. As investigations continue, I hope for a swift recovery for those injured.
Source: KION 546