INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?

[01-18-2025] Santa Barbara County, CA – One Killed, Another Injured In Suspected DUI Motorcycle Crash On Highway 166 Near Santa Maria

One person was killed, and another was seriously injured in a suspected DUI motorcycle crash on Highway 166 east of Santa Maria on Saturday afternoon, January 18, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the fatal crash occurred just before 2:30 p.m. in the area of Spanish Ranch, about halfway between New Cuyama and Santa Maria.

The motorcycle reportedly lost control through a curve, veered off the road onto a dirt shoulder, and collided with a barbed wire fence, ejecting both the rider and the passenger.

Emergency responders from CAL Fire SLO, SLO County Fire, and the Santa Barbara County Fire Department arrived at the scene. The passenger was pronounced dead on-site, while the rider sustained major injuries and was airlifted to Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria.

Authorities suspect alcohol played a role in the crash. The identities of the individuals involved have not yet been released.

Anyone seeking additional information is urged to contact the Santa Barbara County Coroner’s Office. The crash remains under investigation.

Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?

Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:

Check yourself for any injuries.
Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
Seek immediate medical attention.
Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.

What A Lawyer Can Do For You

Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.