Goleta Ambulance Crash on Hollister Avenue Near Pacific Oaks Leaves Driver Seriously Injured; CHP Investigating

• What happened on Hollister Avenue in Goleta on November 9, 2025
• Map and neighborhood context near Pacific Oaks Road
• How California law treats emergency vehicle collisions
• Rights and responsibilities for drivers when sirens and lights are present
• Steps to take in the next 24 to 72 hours
• Who to call for records and information in Santa Barbara County
• How investigations typically unfold and timelines
• Insurance and liability issues after an ambulance crash
• Community safety takeaways for Goleta drivers and cyclists
• Where to get official documents and what they show
• A seven day action plan for affected households
• Commentary from Gosuits Goleta, California Personal Injury Attorney
• Why timely action matters

What happened on Hollister Avenue in Goleta on November 9, 2025

According to initial public information shared by local fire officials, a vehicle and an American Medical Response ambulance were involved in a collision in Goleta on Sunday evening, November 9, 2025. The crash occurred on Hollister Avenue just west of Pacific Oaks Road at approximately 6:43 p.m. The motorist who was the sole occupant of the other vehicle suffered serious injuries and was transported by a second ambulance to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital with a county fire paramedic riding along. Ambulance personnel did not report injuries on scene. Westbound lanes of Hollister Avenue were closed for a period to allow investigators to document the scene and clear debris. The California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash.

Authorities had not released the driver’s name at the time of initial reporting. When names or additional details are withheld, it’s often to allow for family notifications and to ensure accuracy as facts are confirmed.

Map and neighborhood context near Pacific Oaks Road

Hollister Avenue is one of Goleta’s key east-west corridors, running parallel to US 101 and connecting neighborhoods near Storke Road, Pacific Oaks Road, and beyond. The area west of Pacific Oaks Road sits close to the Camino Real Marketplace and Girsh Park, with steady traffic that rises around weekend shopping and dining hours. It’s also a route many Isla Vista and UCSB community members use heading toward Old Town Goleta and Santa Barbara Airport.

On Sunday evenings, lighting conditions can shift quickly around dusk, particularly in late fall. Traffic volumes near shopping centers and the Storke-Hollister intersection often create short windows for turning and merging. Emergency vehicles regularly travel this corridor to reach medical facilities, including Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital to the southeast, and Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital north of Hollister in the Goleta foothills. Residents in this corridor are used to hearing sirens, but even a momentary distraction can complicate right-of-way maneuvers when an ambulance approaches.

How California law treats emergency vehicle collisions

California law recognizes that ambulances and other emergency vehicles sometimes need to move through traffic quickly to protect life and property. When certain conditions are met, an authorized emergency vehicle may be exempt from some traffic rules while responding to an emergency. The core points in state law include:

• Emergency vehicle exemptions are limited and conditional. Under California Vehicle Code section 21055, an emergency vehicle can be exempt from certain traffic laws when responding to an emergency and only when using appropriate audible and visual signals. See the statute text at the state legislature’s site: Vehicle Code 21055.
• Emergency drivers must still use due regard for safety. Even with exemptions, the operator must drive with due regard for the safety of all persons. The law does not protect reckless disregard for safety. That’s stated in Vehicle Code 21056.
• Other drivers must yield and clear a path. If an emergency vehicle approaches with lights and sirens activated, drivers must yield the right-of-way and immediately pull to the right-hand edge of the roadway and stop until it has passed, as required by Vehicle Code 21806.

These rules work together. The emergency vehicle has important privileges but also duties. Other motorists must comply with yielding laws. In a civil injury case, investigators and insurers look closely at whether the ambulance had its signals on, whether it was responding to an emergency, how fast each vehicle was traveling, and how the non-emergency driver reacted when the ambulance approached or entered the intersection or lane.

Rights and responsibilities for drivers when sirens and lights are present

What should drivers do when they see an ambulance approaching in Goleta, whether on Hollister Avenue or a side street? The law is clear, but real-world traffic can be confusing. Here are practical points rooted in California rules:

• Pull to the right and stop when safe. Move as far to the right as you safely can and stop until the emergency vehicle passes, consistent with Vehicle Code 21806. On divided roadways or with multiple lanes, scan for additional emergency vehicles before reentering traffic.
• Do not block an intersection. If you’re in or near an intersection, clear it by proceeding through if you have the right-of-way and it’s safe, then pull to the right. Stopping in the middle of an intersection can box in emergency responders.
• Watch for conflicting signals. Even with a green light, yield to an approaching ambulance using lights and siren. Emergency vehicles may cautiously proceed through red lights while using signals, but they must exercise due regard for others under Vehicle Code 21056.
• For stopped emergency vehicles, slow and move over. California’s Move Over law requires moving over or slowing for stationary emergency and tow vehicles displaying lights. See state information from the Office of Traffic Safety: OTS Move Over and the rule in Vehicle Code 21809.

When collisions happen despite these measures, post-crash responsibilities also kick in. Injury crashes must be reported to the DMV within 10 days using the SR-1 form, regardless of who is at fault. The DMV explains that process here: DMV SR-1 Accident Report. If police did not take a report at the scene, California law also requires drivers to report injury or fatal crashes to police or CHP within 24 hours, per Vehicle Code 20008.

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Steps to take in the next 24 to 72 hours

In the hours after a serious traffic collision, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. The following steps help protect health, documents, and options down the road.

• Prioritize medical care and follow-up. Even after ER treatment, new symptoms can emerge over the next several days. Keep a symptom journal and attend follow-up visits. Request your medical records and imaging when available. HIPAA gives patients rights to access their records; see the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services overview: HHS medical records access.
• Preserve physical and digital evidence. Save dashcam files, phone photos, repair estimates, and any torn clothing or damaged items. Back up videos to a second device or cloud storage.
• Identify witnesses and nearby cameras. Note the names and contact details of anyone who stopped to help. In the Hollister and Pacific Oaks area, potential cameras include retail centers, gas stations, and traffic-adjacent businesses. Record where cameras might be located so timely requests can be made.
• Do not discuss fault at the scene or with insurers. Statements can be taken out of context. Before giving recorded statements or signing anything, consult an attorney to understand your rights. What you say to insurance companies can be used against you later.
• Complete required state reports. File the DMV SR-1 within 10 days for injury crashes: DMV SR-1. If an officer did not take a report, comply with Vehicle Code 20008.
• Consider a quick consult before contacting insurance. A brief discussion with a seasoned personal injury attorney can help you avoid common pitfalls and understand potential timelines and coverage issues.

Who to call for records and information in Santa Barbara County

Official records help reconstruct what happened and document injuries and losses. Here are common sources tied to a crash like the one reported on Hollister Avenue:

• Collision report: If the California Highway Patrol handled the scene or is leading the investigation, request the report directly from CHP. The agency explains how to request a collision report here: CHP collision report. Ask for any associated diagrams and photographs.
• 911 audio and CAD logs: Emergency calls and dispatch computer-aided dispatch logs can clarify timing and routing. These are typically requested from the county’s emergency communications center through a public records request under the California Public Records Act. The Act begins at Government Code 6250 et seq..
• Traffic signal data: If signals at nearby intersections are relevant, the City of Goleta or the County’s traffic engineering division may have timing plans or detection data. Ask for any maintenance or malfunction logs for the relevant day and time.
• Ambulance and EMS records: The ambulance operator’s patient care report can show timelines and observations. Medical privacy laws apply, but a patient or authorized representative may request records. The California Emergency Medical Services Authority oversees EMS standards statewide: EMSA regulations.
• Hospital records: Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital maintains medical records that an adult patient can request under HIPAA. See federal guidance on access rights at HHS HIPAA access.
• For wrongful death cases: If a traffic collision results in a fatality, the county coroner-medical examiner maintains death investigation records and autopsy findings. In California, next of kin may request such records, though some materials may be restricted. The process is typically governed by state law and local policy under the Public Records Act noted above.

How investigations typically unfold and timelines

Serious injury collisions in Santa Barbara County are usually documented by the primary investigating agency, often CHP for incidents on larger thoroughfares. The report typically includes measurements, diagrams, vehicle positions, statements, and preliminary determinations. If there are complex factors like high speeds, questions about signals, or potential mechanical issues, a specialized CHP Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team may assist. You can read more about MAIT work on CHP’s website: CHP MAIT.

Timelines vary. A basic collision report might be available within two to four weeks. Supplemental narratives or reconstructions can take longer, especially if toxicology, event data recorder downloads, or video analysis are involved. Insurance carriers often wait for the official report before making any fault determinations or coverage decisions.

Insurance and liability issues after an ambulance crash

Crashes involving ambulances are not treated exactly the same as ordinary two-vehicle collisions. There are specific legal questions that can affect insurance coverage and responsibility for damages.

• Emergency vehicle privileges do not eliminate accountability. If an ambulance was responding to an emergency with proper signals, certain traffic laws may not apply under Vehicle Code 21055. But the operator still must use due regard for safety under Vehicle Code 21056. In civil claims, evidence about sirens, lights, speed, and line of sight matters.
• Comparative fault can apply. California follows comparative negligence principles, which means responsibility may be shared among drivers depending on the facts. Even if one party had the right-of-way, a separate unsafe movement could still be considered in fault allocation.
• Public entity considerations. Some emergency vehicles are operated by public entities. If a government agency is a potential defendant, California’s Government Claims Act can require a written claim within six months of the incident before a lawsuit is permitted. See Government Code 911.2.
• Private ambulance companies. Many ambulances on the South Coast are operated by private companies that carry commercial policies. Those insurers investigate rapidly and often seek recorded statements early.
• Recorded statements and medical authorizations. Insurers might request broad medical authorizations or interviews. Consider speaking with an attorney first. Statements can be used to minimize or dispute claims, and overly broad authorizations can expose unrelated medical history.
• Property damage and total loss issues. If a vehicle is a total loss, insurers may rely on valuation tools that do not reflect local market conditions around Goleta, where used car prices can be elevated near UCSB and Santa Barbara. Independent valuations and documentation of upgrades or maintenance can be useful.

Community safety takeaways for Goleta drivers and cyclists

Hollister Avenue between Storke Road and Fairview Avenue is a multi-modal corridor. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians share intersections near shopping centers and residential streets. Here are practical safety notes particularly relevant to this stretch:

• Plan for sirens near the Storke-Hollister corridor. With proximity to major destinations and frequent emergency responses, expect occasional sirens. Mentally rehearse pulling to the right and stopping safely when traffic is heavy.
• Mind early darkness in late fall. Between 5 and 7 p.m., visibility can be challenging. Clean windshields, avoid tinted visor glare at dusk, and reduce speed to increase reaction time when approaching signalized intersections.
• Cyclists near Pacific Oaks Road. Use lights after dark, maintain lateral space near driveways that see constant turning movements, and consider high-visibility gear.
• Pedestrians around retail centers. Cross at controlled crosswalks and make eye contact with drivers before stepping off the curb, especially when you hear sirens that can distract other road users.

Statewide safety guidance on yielding and moving over is also reinforced by California’s Office of Traffic Safety, which provides education on the Move Over law here.

Where to get official documents and what they show

Official documents can anchor a claim, support insurance discussions, and help families understand what happened.

• CHP collision report: The report typically lists involved parties, diagrams, sequence of events, vehicle damage, and any citations issued. Request it through CHP following these instructions: CHP collision report. Include date, time, location described as Hollister Avenue west of Pacific Oaks Road, Goleta, and the investigating officer’s ID if known.
• DMV SR-1: This form is required for any crash with injury, death, or property damage above the statutory threshold. It is not an admission of fault and must be filed within 10 days. See DMV SR-1.
• 911 audio and dispatch logs: These can establish when sirens were activated, the ambulance’s approach route, and response times. Request via a Public Records Act request. Reference Government Code 6250 et seq..
• EMS run sheet and patient care report: Shows vitals, care provided, and timestamps. Patients or authorized representatives typically have access, subject to privacy laws and redactions. EMS standards and oversight are described by the California EMS Authority: EMSA regulations.
• Hospital records and imaging: ER notes, discharge paperwork, CT or MRI reports, and follow-up clinic records help document injury severity and recovery needs. Access rights are outlined by HHS: HHS HIPAA access rights.

A seven day action plan for affected households

Below is a practical, time-based outline many families find helpful after a serious roadway injury in Goleta. Adjust based on medical guidance and safety.

Day 1 to Day 2

• Confirm medical stability. Follow hospital discharge instructions. If symptoms worsen, return to the ER or contact a physician.
• Secure vehicles and belongings. If the car was towed from Hollister Avenue, note the yard location, storage fees, and whether insurers need to inspect the vehicle before repairs or salvage.
• Preserve videos and photos. Save any dashcam footage from the time surrounding 6:43 p.m. and back it up. Photograph vehicle damage and visible injuries.
• Write down recollections. Memory fades quickly. Note lane position, speed, traffic density, lighting, whether you heard sirens, and any maneuvers by nearby drivers.

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Day 3 to Day 4

• Request the official report. Submit the CHP collision report request now so you’re in the queue: CHP collision report.
• Start the DMV SR-1. Complete and send the state-required form within 10 days: DMV SR-1.
• Identify witnesses and businesses. List potential witnesses and nearby businesses along Hollister Avenue and Pacific Oaks Road that might have video coverage.
• Consult before insurer calls. Speak with a personal injury attorney to understand rights before giving any recorded statement to insurance companies.

Day 5 to Day 7

• Organize medical documentation. Create a folder for ER paperwork, prescriptions, imaging orders, and referrals.
• Track time off work and expenses. Keep a simple log of missed work, mileage to medical visits, out-of-pocket costs, and home-care or childcare needs.
• Consider targeted records requests. If appropriate, prepare Public Records Act requests for 911 audio and dispatch logs related to the 6:43 p.m. incident time frame, referencing the cross streets in Goleta.

Commentary from Gosuits Goleta, California Personal Injury Attorney

Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by the collision on Hollister Avenue. Serious injuries upend daily life, and the uncertainty that follows can be daunting. This article is offered for general information to help the community understand the process and options after a crash involving an emergency vehicle.

From a civil injury standpoint, collisions with ambulances raise specific questions that not every crash does. Investigators will look closely at whether the ambulance was responding to an emergency with its sirens and lights on, how traffic was flowing west of Pacific Oaks Road at that hour, and whether each driver fulfilled their duties under California law. Emergency drivers have narrow exemptions, but they also have an ongoing duty of due regard for others on the roadway. Other motorists are required to yield and pull to the right when signals are activated. The facts and timing matter. Video, dispatch logs, and witness accounts often make the difference in determining how responsibility is allocated.

Insurance companies and large operators typically move quickly. Adjusters may call within days seeking recorded statements or broad medical authorizations. It’s common for early questions to sound routine while subtly steering toward answers that minimize a claim, attribute fault, or suggest a preexisting medical issue. Signed authorizations can open medical histories that aren’t relevant. If there’s any dispute about sirens, lights, or timing, insurers may hang their hat on the absence of a single document or delay in care. That is why understanding rights early and preserving evidence is so important.

A free consultation is a practical way to get oriented. It helps people understand how California’s rules for emergency vehicles apply, what records to request first, and how to avoid common missteps with insurers. No one should have to navigate this alone while trying to heal.

Why timely action matters

Time-sensitive steps can influence the accuracy of an investigation and the strength of any civil claim that follows. Here is what should be done, why it matters, and when it becomes urgent:

• Request the collision report promptly. CHP reports often guide insurance decisions. Getting in the queue early can shorten delays and allow faster corrections if something is incomplete or inaccurate.
• File required state forms on time. The DMV SR-1 is due within 10 days for injury crashes. Late filings can complicate insurance issues. See DMV SR-1.
• Preserve video before it overwrites. Many retail and traffic-adjacent security systems automatically overwrite video within days. Identifying likely camera locations near Hollister Avenue and Pacific Oaks Road and making timely requests increases the odds footage is saved.
• Protect medical continuity. Early follow-up care creates a clear medical timeline, which can reduce disputes about causation or gaps in treatment.
• Be cautious with insurers. Before giving a recorded statement or signing authorizations, seek a consultation with an attorney to understand how statements and forms may affect a future claim. Insurers may act quickly, but speed does not always align with your long-term interests.
• Calendar any public entity deadlines. If a government agency might be involved, note the six month claim window set by Government Code 911.2. Missing that window can limit options later.

Legal and safety references

• California Vehicle Code 21055 and 21056 on emergency vehicle operation and due regard
• California Vehicle Code 21806 on yielding to emergency vehicles
• California Vehicle Code 21809 Move Over law for stationary emergency vehicles
• California Vehicle Code 20008 reporting injury collisions to law enforcement
• California DMV SR-1 Accident Report
• How to request a CHP collision report
• California Office of Traffic Safety Move Over campaign
• California EMS Authority regulations overview
• HHS guidance on access to medical records
• California Government Code 911.2 six month claim requirement for public entities
• California Public Records Act
• CHP Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT)