Santa Barbara, CA - Three Hospitalized in Collision on Hwy 154 at San Marcos

Santa Barbara, CA (May 1, 2025) – A head-on crash Thursday morning sent three people to the hospital and closed Highway 154 in both directions.

The crash occurred around 6:50 a.m. on May 1, when a pickup and a small SUV collided head-on just north of San Antonio Creek on the San Marcos Pass, according to Santa Barbara County Fire spokesperson Scott Safechuck. One person required extrication and was found unresponsive with critical injuries. Two other people were found walking from a black truck with moderate injuries, according to CHP. All three were transported by two ambulances to Cottage Hospital, Safechuck said.

As of 9:30 a.m., Highway 154 remained closed in both directions between State Route 192 and State Route 246 with no ETA on reopening, according to CHP, which advised drivers to use Highway 101 as an alternate route. Meanwhile, an investigation is still ongoing.

Our thoughts are with the injured victims and their loved ones in hopes of their full recovery.

Motor Vehicle Accidents in California

Unfortunately, accidents on California's roadways involving several vehicles, injuries, and sometimes fatalities are commonplace. These incidents have the potential to result in serious property damage, life-threatening injuries, and mental distress for victims and their families.

In the Golden State, thankfully, victims of auto accidents are legally entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages brought on by careless or irresponsible drivers. The comparative negligence approach used in California means that victims can still obtain damages even if they bear some of the fault, with their compensation being lowered accordingly.

Taking immediate action following an accident is crucial for several reasons, such as safeguarding your legal rights, recording injuries, and preserving evidence. California has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, so you need to start taking action as soon as you can.

If you have recently suffered the tragic and unexpected loss of a loved one in a car accident, consulting with our empathetic and brave wrongful death attorney at Countrywide Trial Lawyers can make all the difference. Our skilled legal team will handle the legal complexities of your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.

Don't hesitate to get in touch with our Santa Barbara car accident lawyers at Countrywide Trial Lawyers as soon as possible if you have been hurt or a loved one has died in a collision caused by another driver's negligence. Call us at 844-844-9119 for compassionate and personalized guidance today and learn more about your legal options.