Filmore, CA (December 24, 2024) – On Christmas Eve, a devastating head-on collision on Highway 126 east of Fillmore claimed the lives of Carlos Perez, 39, and Maria Ceja, 31, both of Santa Paula.
Accident Details: The accident occurred just after 2:20 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, near the Fillmore Fish Hatchery. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a westbound 2024 Volvo SUV veered across the center median and into oncoming traffic at approximately 65 mph. The vehicle collided head-on with a 2019 Lexus traveling eastbound. Perez and Ceja, who were in the Lexus, died from blunt-force injuries, as confirmed by the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The driver of the Volvo, a 44-year-old man from Oak View, was critically injured and airlifted to Ventura County Medical Center. Two additional passengers in the Volvo, a 35-year-old man and a 71-year-old woman, suffered moderate injuries and were transported to Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. Two of the three dogs involved were also killed.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic collision warrants a thorough investigation into several key factors to determine liability and provide clarity for the victims’ families:
- Driver Behavior: The Volvo driver veering across the center median into oncoming traffic raises significant questions about the driver’s actions at the time of the crash. Potential causes could include distraction (e.g., phone use or other inattention), impairment, or fatigue. If the driver is found to have acted negligently or recklessly, they may bear liability for the collision.
- Road Conditions: Poor signage, insufficient barriers, or defective pavement could have contributed to the Volvo crossing the median. Investigators must assess whether the roadway was adequately maintained and whether additional safety measures, such as a concrete divider, could have prevented the crash. If road conditions played a role, a claim against the agency responsible for maintaining the highway could arise.
- Mechanical Failure: Mechanical issues with the Volvo, such as brake failure, tire blowout, or steering malfunction, could have caused the vehicle to cross into oncoming traffic. A detailed vehicle inspection can rule out or confirm mechanical failure. Liability could extend to the vehicle’s manufacturer or maintenance provider if a defect is identified.
For the families of Carlos Perez and Maria Ceja, a wrongful death claim may be an avenue to seek justice and financial support for their immense loss. If evidence shows negligence caused the accident, such a claim could help cover funeral expenses, loss of income, and other damages.
Additionally, the injured passengers in the Volvo may have grounds to file personal injury claims and pursue compensation to address medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of Carlos Perez and Maria Ceja during this time of profound loss. To those injured in this tragedy, I wish for a full and speedy recovery.
Source: Ventura County Star