San Luis Obispo County, CA (July 28, 2024) – On a tragic Sunday night, three Central Valley residents lost their lives in a devastating three-vehicle collision on Highway 46 in San Luis Obispo County. The crash, which occurred around 10:30 p.m. west of West Centre Street in Shandon, claimed the lives of 24-year-old Rosalinda Bucio from Cutler, 32-year-old Yvette Guzman of Sanger, and 27-year-old Francisco J. Polinasainz of Reedley.
Accident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), 30-year-old Saundra Foutz from Paso Robles was driving the wrong way in her Mercedes. She was going westbound in the eastbound lane of Highway 46. Foutz’s vehicle collided head-on with a Honda carrying four passengers from the Central Valley. The impact forced both vehicles into the eastbound lanes, where they struck another Honda driven by 38-year-old Jess Lopez from Bakersfield. Lopez sustained minor injuries.
Rosalinda Bucio, who was driving the first Honda, did not survive the crash. Tragically, her passengers, Yvette Guzman and Francisco J. Polinasainz, also succumbed to their injuries. A fourth passenger, 28-year-old Carlos Quinonez from Orange Cove, sustained major injuries and was transported to Sierra Vista Medical Center in San Luis Obispo. Saundra Foutz, the driver of the Mercedes, was taken to Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno with major injuries.
Investigation: The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and while impairment is not currently suspected, the CHP noted that the investigation into potential impairment by the driver is ongoing.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several factors must be investigated to determine liability and the appropriate course of action for the victims’ families.
Investigators will need to examine whether Foutz breached her duty of care to other road users. The fact that she was driving in the wrong lane suggests a significant breach, but the reason behind this action (e.g., distraction, fatigue, recklessness) will be crucial in establishing negligence.
The families of the deceased may have grounds to file wrongful death claims against Saundra Foutz if it is determined that her actions were negligent. Similarly, Quinonez and Lopez may be able to file personal injury claims.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Rosalinda Bucio, Yvette Guzman, and Francisco J. Polinasainz during this difficult time. I wish all the injured individuals a fast recovery.
Source: KMPH; San Luis Obispo Tribune