A tragic incident on Old Woman Springs Road in Landers, California, has left one man dead, another critically injured, and one woman facing serious charges related to driving under the influence (DUI). The collision, which occurred on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of impaired driving.
Incident Overview
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the accident happened at approximately 2:30 p.m. Lucy Barajas, 41, of Yucca Valley, was driving a Toyota southbound on Old Woman Springs Road, south of La Brisa Drive. A flatbed truck and a Chevrolet pickup truck with a trailer were stopped on the southbound shoulder of the highway. The drivers of the trucks were standing on the shoulder near their vehicles when the incident occurred.
The CHP reports that Barajas, allegedly intoxicated, made an unsafe turn onto the shoulder, colliding with both men and their trucks. Detrick Kelley, 41, also a resident of Yucca Valley and one of the truck drivers, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The other truck driver, William Adams, 26, sustained major injuries and was initially transported to Hi Desert Medical Center before being airlifted to Desert Regional Medical Center, where he remains in critical condition.
Barajas was arrested on suspicion of DUI causing bodily injury and vehicular manslaughter. She is currently being held at the West Valley Detention Center on $250,000 bail.
Legal and Safety Implications
This collision underscores the significant dangers of driving under the influence. Beyond the immediate criminal charges, incidents like this often lead to complex legal battles in the civil court system. Victims and their families have the right to seek compensation for the damages they have suffered due to another’s negligence.
Negligence and Liability
In personal injury cases stemming from car accidents, proving negligence is a crucial step. Negligence generally means that a person failed to act with reasonable care, and this failure caused harm to another person. In a DUI-related accident, the driver’s intoxication is strong evidence of negligence. Driving under the influence is a clear violation of traffic laws and demonstrates a disregard for the safety of others on the road.
In this case, if Lucy Barajas is found to have been driving under the influence, she could be held liable for the damages resulting from the collision. These damages can include:
- Medical Expenses: The costs associated with treating injuries, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. William Adams, who sustained major injuries, is likely facing substantial medical bills.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for the income lost due to the inability to work. This can include past lost wages as well as future lost earnings if the injuries prevent the victim from returning to their previous job.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. This can include both the immediate pain from the injuries and the long-term impact on the victim’s quality of life.
- Property Damage: The cost of repairing or replacing damaged vehicles. Both trucks involved in the collision likely sustained significant damage.
- Wrongful Death: In cases where a person is killed, the victim’s family may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. This can include compensation for funeral expenses, loss of the deceased’s income, and the emotional loss suffered by the family.
The Importance of a Thorough Investigation
A thorough investigation is essential in any serious car accident case. This involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reconstructing the accident to determine exactly what happened and who was at fault. In DUI cases, evidence such as police reports, blood alcohol content (BAC) test results, and witness statements can be critical in establishing liability.
Additionally, investigators may examine factors such as road conditions, visibility, and any other contributing factors that may have played a role in the collision. In this particular incident, the fact that the trucks were stopped on the shoulder of the road raises questions about why they were there and whether they took appropriate safety precautions.
Statute of Limitations
It is important for victims and their families to understand the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims. The statute of limitations is the time limit within which a lawsuit must be filed. In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the injury. For wrongful death cases, the statute of limitations is also two years from the date of death.
Failing to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations can result in the loss of the right to pursue compensation. Therefore, it is crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible after an accident.
Increased Dangers on Old Woman Springs Road
This is the second fatal collision on Old Woman Springs Road near Pipes Canyon Road in less than a month. On July 19, another man, Michael Lopez, was killed in an early morning collision. These repeated tragedies raise serious concerns about safety on this stretch of highway. While each accident has its own unique circumstances, the fact that two fatal collisions have occurred in close proximity and within a short period of time suggests a potential pattern or underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Local authorities may consider conducting a safety review of Old Woman Springs Road to identify any potential hazards or contributing factors to these accidents. This review could include an assessment of speed limits, signage, road conditions, and traffic patterns. It is essential to take proactive steps to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safety of all drivers and passengers on this road.
Commentary from Gosuits Landers, California Personal Injury Attorney
This tragic incident on Old Woman Springs Road is a devastating reminder of the severe consequences of impaired driving. The loss of life and the critical injuries sustained highlight the importance of holding negligent parties accountable.
When an individual makes the reckless decision to drive under the influence, they put everyone on the road at risk. The legal system provides avenues for victims and their families to seek justice and compensation for the harm they have suffered. This compensation can help to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
It is essential for anyone who has been injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver to understand their legal rights. A seasoned personal injury attorney can provide guidance and support throughout the claims process. This includes investigating the accident, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, pursuing litigation.
The pursuit of justice in these cases is not just about financial compensation. It is also about holding the responsible party accountable for their actions and sending a message that impaired driving will not be tolerated. By seeking justice, victims and their families can find closure and begin the process of healing.
