Santa Clara, California — A tragic Highway 101 multi-vehicle crash early Sunday morning left two people dead, prompting an ongoing investigation by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The collision, which occurred just north of Great America Parkway, involved three vehicles and has raised concerns about hit-and-run accidents on California’s busy highways.
Fatal Chain Reaction on Highway 101
CHP officers responded to the northbound lanes of Highway 101 around 1:11 a.m. after receiving reports of a severe multi-vehicle crash. According to officials, a 2023 Hyundai Elantra was traveling in the second lane when it was struck by an unidentified vehicle, causing it to spin out, hit the median, and overturn. The unnamed driver fled the scene.
After exiting their vehicle, the two occupants of the overturned Elantra—a 44-year-old man from Menlo Park and a 27-year-old woman from San Jose—were struck by a 2016 Hyundai Accent that collided with the wreckage. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. The Accent’s driver remained and cooperated with investigators.
Liability and Legal Options After a Highway 101 Crash
Multi-vehicle collisions, such as the Highway 101 multi-vehicle crash, can lead to complex liability issues involving multiple drivers, insurance companies, and potential hit-and-run investigations. Victims and families may pursue personal injury or wrongful death claims, depending on the circumstances and available evidence.
Key legal considerations include:
- Hit-and-run liability: Leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury or death is a felony under California Vehicle Code §20001.
- Wrongful death claims: Families of deceased victims may seek compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.
- Insurance disputes: Determining coverage and fault is often complicated when an unidentified vehicle is involved.
Your Legal Partner After a Multi-Vehicle Accident
At Farahi Law Firm, our award-winning personal injury lawyers in Santa Clara assist families affected by tragedies like this multi-vehicle crash. We work tirelessly to investigate liability, identify responsible parties, and help victims recover the compensation they deserve.If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious car accident, contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the medical care you need and the money you deserve.
