San Luis Obispo County, CA (October 13, 2024) – An Orcutt man has entered not-guilty pleas in San Luis Obispo County Superior Court to three felony charges linked to a tragic multi-vehicle crash that claimed the life of 30-year-old Michael Cole from Santa Maria.
Accident Details: The collision occurred around 2 a.m. on Highway 101. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash began with a solo vehicle rollover incident that blocked the southbound lanes. Lossing, driving a Honda, approached the rear of a 2012 Nissan Altima driven by Cole, who was stopped behind a black GMC Sierra driven by Leticia Fernandez, 53, of Bakersfield. Due to unsafe speed, Lossing could not slow down or avoid the stopped traffic, leading to a rear-end collision with Cole’s Nissan.
The impact pushed the Nissan into Fernandez’s GMC. Lossing’s vehicle veered onto the dirt median, colliding with a Chrysler Pacifica driven by Trisha Norris, 61, of Santa Maria, who had also stopped due to the initial incident. Cole was transported to the hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Investigation: The San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office has charged Lossing with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, driving under the influence causing injury, and driving with a blood-alcohol content of 0.08% or higher causing injury.
The complaint includes special allegations for causing great bodily injury in addition to these charges. Lossing remains in custody at the San Luis Obispo County Jail, with bail set at $100,000.
Driver Behavior: As a personal injury attorney, I find that Dylan Lossing’s alleged unsafe speed and intoxication are critical factors that contribute to determining liability in this tragic incident. The California Highway Patrol indicated that Lossing was driving at a high rate of speed before the collision, which may suggest recklessness.
Negligence and Wrongful Death: Lossing’s failure to maintain a safe speed and control of his vehicle and impairment suggest negligence. Cole’s family may have grounds to file a wrongful death lawsuit against Lossing, seeking damages for the loss of their loved one.
Community Support: I offer my sincerest condolences to Michael Cole’s family and friends during this difficult time. In light of this unexpected tragedy, a GoFundMe page has been established to assist with funeral costs.
Source: Noozhawk