The California coast is a hazardous place to drive. Highway 101 is the most common route through Central California, leading to highly sought-after beach towns. Sadly, these tourist attractions come at a price.
If you have been involved in an accident traveling on the I1 or the 101, you may be eligible to be compensated for your injuries.
Route 101 and I1
Route 101 follows the Pacific Coast, stretching from Los Angeles, California, to Turnwater, Washington. In a recent eight-year period, highway 101 was deemed the most dangerous road in Santa Barbara. The number of fatal crashes on Highway 101 can be attributed to the high traffic volume that the road experiences daily.
While Highway 101 was categorized as the most dangerous road in Santa Barbara, California State Route 1, known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is considered the third deadliest in the county.
Although both Highway 101 and I1 follow similar paths up the coast and even intersect for 54 miles in Ventura and Santa Barbara, they are two separate highways with their own unique risks.
Why are the 101 and I1 So Dangerous?
Although the views are breathtaking, Highway 101 and Interstate 1 are narrow with tight curves, making it dangerous to drive in inclement weather. There are also several sections of road that have no guardrails.
The highways are normally two lanes, which poses a problem for impatient drivers. Impatient drivers may try to pass you, which is extremely dangerous given the road structure and limited visibility.
Between 2010 and 2018, there were 262 fatal collisions in Santa Barbara County. In nearly one-third of these traffic accidents, at least one motorist was intoxicated. Given the obvious dangers of driving these highways, alcohol only increases the chances of a fatal crash.
Recent Accident
On November 19, 2023, in Buellton, California, a woman was driving a Kia northbound in the fast lane on Highway 101 when the vehicle drifted and collided with the concrete center divider.
The motorist behind this vehicle, driving a Mercedes, swerved to avoid hitting the lead vehicle but lost control of the car, ending up in the slow lane.
The reason that the first vehicle lost control is unknown, but this accident shows the dangers of driving Highway 101. An accident can easily occur when a motorist takes his or her eyes off the road for a split second.
How to Keep Yourself Protected
- Stay vigilant: Pull over at a rest stop if you feel sleepy or need a break from driving.
- Let cars pass you: If you notice cars piling up behind you, let them pass.
- Follow posted speed limits: Never drive faster than the speed limit.
- Take proper safety measures: Always wear a seatbelt if in a vehicle or a helmet if riding on a motorcycle.
- Call 911 in an emergency: If you or someone else is injured in an accident, contact emergency personnel.
Even taking all these safety precautions, it is still possible that you may be involved in an accident.
Injured in an Auto Accident? Contact an Auto Accident Lawyer Today
Accidents on the 101 and I1 are frequent, with many being fatal. If you have been injured in an accident on the California Pacific Coast, our auto accident lawyers are here to help. Contact us today online or by calling 805-643-5555 to schedule your free consultation.
