Michael Hanson, Joseph Hernandez Suffers Major Injuries in Lompoc Crash on Highway 1 near Santa Rosa Road as Selena Araiza

Lompoc, California (February 19, 2020) – One person was killed and two other people were injured Friday evening in a traffic accident involving two vehicles in Lompoc, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The fatal wreck happened on Highway 1 near Santa Rosa Road at around 6:20 p.m. Friday, February 14.

Authorities said a 2005 Honda S2000 driven by Michael Hanson, 55, of Lompoc, was heading northbound on Highway 1 when it veered off the road. The Honda then careened back across the traffic lanes and collided with a southbound 2015 Nissan Sentra driven by Joseph Hernandez, 27, of Santa Barbara.

A passenger in the Nissan, Selena Josefina Araiza, 24, of Santa Barbara, died at the scene.

Hernandez and Hanson were airlifted to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital with serious injuries.

It remains unclear whether alcohol or drugs were factors in the collision.

An investigation into the accident is underway.

Managing Partner and CEO Alpine Law Group, Mr. Arin Khodaverdian believes that car accident claims are rarely straightforward regardless of the circumstances involved. “Liable insurance companies will often do everything possible to limit their out-of-pocket expenses by either devaluing or outright denying your claim and it is crucial, therefore, to have an experienced attorney on your side,” He said.

Mr. Khodaverdian encourages victims and their family members to seek legal help as soon as possible in order to preserve their rights to the full extent of the law.

Mr. Khodaverdian has worked for many years as a wrongful death and personal injury attorney. He and his team of attorneys has helped thousands of injury victims and their families recover over $100 million in compensation. “In one case, we recovered a 7-figure settlement within 11 business days of being hired by the family of a victim who was killed by a negligent driver.”

Swift action by an experienced attorney helps preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and begin to pursue those responsible for the incident.

Mr. Khodaverdian is personally available for free consultations 24/7 by calling 866-773-0222