San Andreas, CA (February 4, 2025) – A three-vehicle collision on a slick Highway 12 west of San Andreas claimed the life of a Tracy woman and left another person seriously injured on Tuesday afternoon.
Accident Details: The crash occurred around 3:45 p.m. following rainfall that made the roadway hazardous, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) San Andreas Unit. CHP spokesperson Officer Jeremy Cooper reported that a 16-year-old driver from Valley Springs was traveling westbound in a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado at approximately 50 mph. At the same time, a 2014 Jeep Cherokee driven by Weston Stulac, 27, of Columbia, was heading eastbound at a similar speed. Behind the Jeep was a 2005 Dodge Ram driven by Tara Miller, 54, of Arnold, with a 46-year-old female passenger from Tracy.
The teen driver attempted to move into the slow lane but swerved back into the fast lane to avoid another vehicle, causing the teen driver to lose control of the Silverado and slide into oncoming traffic. The Silverado sideswiped the Jeep before crashing head-on into the Dodge Ram.
The Tracy woman, who was a passenger in the Dodge Ram, was pronounced dead after being transported to Mark Twain Medical Center. Miller was taken to San Joaquin General Hospital with major injuries. Both occupants of the Dodge Ram were reportedly not wearing seatbelts.
Investigation: The CHP confirmed that no other injuries were reported and that DUI was not a factor in the collision. The incident remains under investigation.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic crash highlights the complexities of determining liability in multi-vehicle accidents on hazardous roads. Investigators will assess various factors, including:
- Driver Negligence and Lane Changes: The juvenile driver’s sudden maneuver back into the fast lane appears to have caused the loss of control, leading to the crash.
- Road Conditions: The rainy conditions and steep grade on Highway 12 may have contributed to the crash. Investigators will evaluate whether poor road maintenance or a lack of warning signs about slick conditions played a role.
Possible Civil Consequences: The family of the deceased passenger may consider pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit. Such a claim could seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional pain. Additionally, Miller may have grounds for a personal injury claim for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
Authorities noted that neither the Miller nor the passenger in the Dodge Ram was wearing a seatbelt. Failure to wear a seatbelt may constitute negligence. However, non-use does not necessarily eliminate the possibility of recovery. However, California’s comparative negligence laws may be implicated.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the passenger in the Dodge who lost her life in this tragic accident. I also wish Tara Miller a full recovery.
Source: MyMotherLode.com