A devastating two-vehicle accident between two sedans on County Road 102 near County Road 16 in Woodland, California, claimed at least one life on the evening of November 9, 2025. The violent collision, which occurred in a rural area of Yolo County, resulted in extensive damage to both vehicles and prompted an hours-long emergency response that extended into the early morning hours of November 10.
Details of the Woodland Two-Vehicle Accident
The collision was first reported to emergency dispatchers at approximately 10:23 p.m. on November 9, 2025. According to California Highway Patrol dispatch logs, the crash involved a red sedan and a gray sedan that collided with tremendous force on County Road 102, just south of the County Road 16 intersection.
Witnesses who called 911 described a chaotic scene with both vehicles severely damaged and disabled on opposite sides of the rural roadway. One sedan came to rest in a ditch along the northbound lane, while the other vehicle ended up in the southbound lane. Multiple callers reported that both cars appeared “smashed” and that debris from the collision was scattered across the roadway, indicating the severity of the impact.
Emergency Response and Road Closure
The serious nature of the crash prompted an immediate and substantial emergency response. Multiple ambulances were dispatched to the scene, with additional medical units called in shortly after the initial report, indicating that responders quickly recognized the severity of the situation.
Despite the swift arrival of emergency medical personnel, the collision proved fatal. The Yolo County Coroner arrived at the scene at approximately 12:30 a.m. on November 10 to assist with the investigation and recovery efforts.
County Road 102 remained closed for several hours overnight as California Highway Patrol investigators documented the scene, gathered evidence, and coordinated cleanup operations. The extended closure was necessary to allow investigators to examine the crash site thoroughly and safely clear debris from the roadway.
Ongoing Investigation into the Cause of the Crash
As of this writing, the California Highway Patrol has not released information regarding the cause of the collision. Investigators will examine multiple factors that commonly contribute to fatal rural road accidents, including:
Speed and Road Conditions: County roads often have higher speed limits and less lighting than urban streets, which can increase the severity of accidents. Investigators will examine whether excessive speed was a contributing factor to this collision.
Driver Impairment: Authorities will investigate whether alcohol, drugs, or driver fatigue contributed to the crash. The late evening timing of the accident raises questions about potential impairment or drowsy driving.
Visibility and Road Design: Rural roads may have limited signage, poor lighting, and challenging curves or intersections. The investigation will consider whether visibility issues or road design factors contributed to the collision.
Distracted Driving: Investigators will examine whether cell phone use or other distractions may have contributed to one or both drivers losing control or failing to observe the other vehicle.
Mechanical Failure: While less common, vehicle defects or maintenance issues can contribute to serious accidents. Investigators may examine both vehicles for potential mechanical failures.
The identity of the victim has not been publicly released pending notification of family members. Authorities have not disclosed additional details about any other occupants or injuries.
Legal Rights for Families After Fatal Car Accidents in Yolo County
When a loved one dies in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims can provide critical financial support and a measure of justice during an impossibly difficult time.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in California
Under California law, certain family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit when their loved one is killed due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful act. Eligible parties typically include:
- Surviving spouses or domestic partners
- Children of the deceased
- If neither a spouse nor children survives, other financial dependents may have standing to file a claim.
Wrongful death claims can seek compensation for both economic and non-economic losses, including funeral and burial expenses, loss of the deceased’s expected earnings and benefits, loss of companionship and emotional support, and the pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Navigating a wrongful death claim while grieving is overwhelming. An experienced personal injury attorney can handle the legal complexities. At the same time, you focus on your family, including conducting an independent investigation to determine fault and liability, gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony, calculating the full extent of damages, including future financial losses, negotiating with insurance companies who may try to minimize payouts, and representing your interests in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
California law imposes strict deadlines for filing wrongful death lawsuits. Generally, families have two years from the date of death to file a claim. Missing this deadline typically means losing the right to seek compensation entirely, making it crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after a fatal accident.
GJEL Accident Attorneys: Protecting the Rights of Accident Victims Throughout Northern California
For over 40 years, GJEL Accident Attorneys has represented accident victims and their families throughout Northern California, including Yolo County and the surrounding Woodland area. Our team understands the devastating impact of losing a loved one in a preventable accident and is committed to helping families pursue justice and compensation.
Our Approach to Wrongful Death Cases
When you work with GJEL, you benefit from our comprehensive approach to wrongful death litigation:
Thorough Investigation: We conduct independent investigations that often uncover evidence insurance companies overlook or ignore. Our team works with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to build the strongest possible case.
Compassionate Representation: We recognize that no amount of money can replace your loved one. Our attorneys handle your case with the sensitivity and respect your family deserves while aggressively pursuing the compensation you need.
Proven Track Record: GJEL has recovered over $1 billion for our clients, including numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in wrongful death cases. Our results speak to our commitment and capability.
No Fees Unless We Win: We handle all wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your family. This arrangement ensures that financial concerns never prevent families from accessing quality legal representation.
Serving Woodland and Yolo County Communities
Our familiarity with Yolo County roads, local courts, and the specific challenges of rural accident cases positions us to effectively represent families affected by tragedies like the County Road 102 collision. We understand the unique factors that contribute to accidents on county roads and have the resources to investigate thoroughly.
Common Causes of Fatal Collisions on Rural California Roads
Rural road accidents like the one on County Road 102 often involve factors that differ from urban crashes:
Higher Speed Limits: County roads typically have higher speed limits, and the increased speeds mean collisions are more likely to be fatal when they occur.
Head-On Collisions: Two-lane rural roads have a higher incidence of head-on crashes, which are among the deadliest types of accidents. Without physical barriers separating traffic directions, a driver who crosses the centerline can cause catastrophic results.
Limited Emergency Response: Rural areas may be farther from hospitals and trauma centers, resulting in crash victims waiting longer for advanced medical care. The time between injury and treatment can be critical in determining survival.
Reduced Visibility: Many county roads lack streetlights, and drivers may not see hazards, curves, or oncoming vehicles until it’s too late to avoid a collision.
Wildlife and Agricultural Hazards: Rural roads present unique dangers, including wildlife crossings and slow-moving agricultural equipment that urban drivers may not anticipate.
Steps to Take If You’ve Lost a Loved One in a Car Accident
If your family is dealing with the loss of a loved one in a car accident, consider these critical steps:
- Focus on Your Family: Allow yourself and your family time to grieve. There’s no “right way” to process such a traumatic loss.
- Preserve Evidence: If possible, retain any belongings returned by authorities and all related documentation regarding the accident.
- Avoid Early Settlement Offers: Insurance companies often approach grieving families with quick settlement offers that are far below the claim’s actual value. Don’t accept any offer before consulting an attorney.
- Consult an Attorney: Speak with a wrongful death attorney who can explain your rights and options. Initial consultations are typically free, and you’re under no obligation.
- Don’t Discuss the Case Publicly: Avoid posting about the accident on social media or discussing fault with anyone other than your attorney, as statements can be used against you in legal proceedings.
The Road Ahead: Seeking Justice and Preventing Future Tragedies
While nothing can undo the tragedy of a fatal accident, holding negligent parties accountable serves two essential purposes. It provides families with resources to cope with their financial losses and honor their loved one’s memory. It sends a message that dangerous driving carries consequences, potentially preventing future tragedies.
Every fatal accident represents not just a legal case but a profound human loss—a person with hopes, dreams, relationships, and a future stolen by someone’s negligence. At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we never lose sight of this reality. When we represent wrongful death clients, we’re fighting not just for compensation but for recognition of the value of the life that was lost.
Understanding Fatal Car Accident Settlement Calculators
Fatal car accident settlement calculators are specialized online tools designed to help families estimate the potential value of a wrongful death claim following a tragic collision. These calculators take into account multiple factors that California courts consider when determining fair compensation, including the deceased’s age, income, and life expectancy; projected future earnings and benefits the victim would have provided to their family; medical expenses incurred before death and funeral and burial costs; the loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support; and the pain and suffering endured by surviving family members.
By inputting specific information about your loved one and the circumstances of their death, these calculators provide a preliminary estimate of what your wrongful death claim might be worth. However, it’s essential to understand that every case is unique, and these calculators offer only a starting point for understanding potential compensation. The actual value of a wrongful death claim depends on numerous variables that require careful legal analysis, including the degree of negligence involved, available insurance coverage, the strength of evidence, and the skill of your legal representation.
While settlement calculators can be helpful educational tools, they cannot replace the personalized case evaluation that an experienced wrongful death attorney provides. At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we offer free consultations where we thoroughly assess your specific situation and provide a more accurate projection of your claim’s value based on our four decades of experience securing compensation for families who have lost loved ones to negligent drivers. Call us now at +1-866-218-3776 to speak with our experts.
Take Action Today – Get the Help You Deserve
“Losing someone you love in a sudden, violent collision is a pain that no family should ever have to endure, and my heart goes out to everyone affected by this devastating tragedy on County Road 102. In the immediate aftermath of such a loss, the last thing on your mind is legal action—and that’s completely understandable. But as you begin to process this unimaginable grief, it’s important to know that you have rights, and there are steps we can take to protect those rights while you focus on your family. Fatal accidents on rural county roads often involve complex questions about speed, road conditions, visibility, and driver negligence that require thorough investigation. Critical evidence can disappear quickly—skid marks fade, witnesses’ memories dim, and insurance companies begin building their defense immediately. I’ve spent over 40 years helping families navigate this difficult journey, and I can tell you that having an experienced attorney investigate the circumstances of your loved one’s death, preserve evidence, and handle communications with insurance companies allows you to grieve without the added burden of legal complexities. At GJEL, we work on a contingency basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for your family. No amount of money will ever bring your loved one back, but holding negligent parties accountable can provide your family with financial stability and a measure of justice during this dark time. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here to help.” — Andy Gillin, GJEL Accident Attorneys
If you’ve lost a loved one in the County Road 102 collision or any fatal car accident in Woodland or throughout Yolo County, GJEL Accident Attorneys is ready to fight for your family’s rights—and you won’t pay a single dollar in attorney fees unless we win your case. Our contingency fee structure means there are no upfront costs, no retainers, and no hourly billing—we only get paid when we successfully recover compensation for your family.
This approach ensures that every family, regardless of financial circumstances, has access to the exact high-quality legal representation that has helped us recover over $1 billion for our clients over the past four decades. We understand that financial concerns are often overwhelming after losing a loved one, especially when faced with funeral expenses, lost income, and an uncertain future. That’s precisely why we remove the financial barrier to justice.
When you contact GJEL, you’ll receive a free, confidential consultation where we’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options with compassion and clarity. Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of your grief by offering inadequate settlements or denying your claim entirely. Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys today at 1-866-218-3776 or visit our Sacramento office to schedule your complimentary case evaluation. Time is critical in wrongful death cases, and the sooner we begin investigating, the stronger your case becomes. Let our experience, resources, and commitment work for your family—at no risk to you.
Local Resources and Support for Woodland Accident Victims
Suppose you or your family has been affected by the fatal collision on County Road 102 or any traffic accident in the Woodland area. In that case, the following local agencies and organizations can provide assistance, information, and support during this difficult time:
Law Enforcement and Traffic Safety Agencies
California Highway Patrol – Woodland Area Office Address: 2820 East Gibson Road, Woodland, CA 95776 Phone: (530) 662-4685 Website: https://www.chp.ca.gov/find-an-office/central-division/woodland-area The CHP Woodland Area Office investigates traffic collisions on state highways and county roads throughout Yolo County, including the County Road 102 incident. You can contact this office to obtain collision reports, check on investigation status, or report traffic safety concerns.
Woodland Police Department Address: 725 Court Street, Woodland, CA 95695 Non-Emergency Phone: (530) 666-2411 Emergency: 911 Website: https://www.cityofwoodland.org/346/Police-Department The Woodland Police Department handles traffic enforcement and collision investigations within the city limits of Woodland and provides resources for accident victims and their families.
Yolo County Sheriff’s Office Address: 140 Tony Diaz Drive, Woodland, CA 95776 Non-Emergency Phone: (530) 668-5280 Website: https://www.yolocounty.org/government/general-government-departments/sheriff The Yolo County Sheriff’s Office provides law enforcement services in unincorporated areas of Yolo County and can assist with accident reports and investigations on county roads.
Medical and Emergency Services
Woodland Memorial Hospital Address: 1325 Cottonwood Street, Woodland, CA 95695 Phone: (530) 662-3961 Website: https://www.dignityhealth.org/woodland-memorial The primary hospital serving Woodland and Yolo County, providing emergency care for accident victims.
UC Davis Medical Center Address: 2315 Stockton Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95817 Phone: (916) 734-2011 Website: https://health.ucdavis.edu/medical-center A Level I Trauma Center serving the greater Sacramento region, including Yolo County, for the most serious accident injuries.
County and Transportation Departments
Yolo County Public Works Department Address: 292 West Beamer Street, Woodland, CA 95695 Phone: (530) 666-8775 Website: https://www.yolocounty.org/government/general-government-departments/public-works-facilities Responsible for maintaining county roads, including County Road 102. This department can provide information about road conditions, maintenance records, and safety improvements.
Yolo County Coroner’s Office Address: 140 Tony Diaz Drive, Woodland, CA 95776 Phone: (530) 666-8282 Website: https://www.yolocounty.org/government/general-government-departments/sheriff/coroner The Coroner’s Office investigates all sudden, unexpected, or violent deaths in Yolo County and can provide death certificates and information about ongoing investigations.
Grief Support and Counseling Services
Yolo County Health and Human Services – Mental Health Services Address: 137 North Cottonwood Street, Woodland, CA 95695 Phone: (530) 666-8630 Crisis Line: (530) 666-8707 Website: https://www.yolocounty.org/health-human-services/adults/mental-health Provides mental health services, crisis intervention, and grief counseling for Yolo County residents dealing with trauma and loss.
Yolo Hospice Address: 1909 Galileo Court, Davis, CA 95618 Phone: (530) 758-5566 Website: https://www.yolohospice.org Offers grief support groups, individual counseling, and bereavement services for families who have lost loved ones, including those who died in accidents.
The Solace Tree (for children and teens) Phone: (916) 454-9654 Website: https://www.thesolacetree.org Provides peer support groups for children and teenagers who have experienced the death of a loved one, with services available throughout the greater Sacramento area, including Yolo County.
Victim Services and Legal Resources
Yolo County Victim Services Address: 725 Court Street, Room 206, Woodland, CA 95695 Phone: (530) 666-8445 Website: https://www.yolocounty.org/government/general-government-departments/district-attorney/victim-services Provides support, information, and assistance to crime victims and their families, including those affected by vehicular manslaughter or DUI-related fatalities.
California Victim Compensation Board Phone: 1-800-777-9229 Website: https://victims.ca.gov The state program provides financial assistance to crime victims and their families for expenses such as medical bills, funeral costs, mental health treatment, and lost wages.
State Bar of California – Lawyer Referral Service Phone: 1-866-442-2529 Website: https://www.calbar.ca.gov/Public/Need-Legal-Help/Lawyer-Referral-Service Provides referrals to qualified attorneys throughout California, including those specializing in personal injury and wrongful death cases.
Traffic Safety and Collision Data
California Office of Traffic Safety Website: https://www.ots.ca.gov. This website provides traffic safety information, collision statistics, and educational resources for California drivers and families affected by traffic accidents.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Phone: 1-888-327-4236 Website: https://www.nhtsa.gov. A federal agency providing vehicle safety information, recall notices, and traffic safety resources.
The Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) website (https://tims.berkeley.edu) provides public access to California traffic collision data, enabling users to view collision statistics and trends in specific areas, including Yolo County.
Additional Support Resources
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) – Sacramento Area Phone: 1-877-MADD-HELP (1-877-623-3435) Website: https://www.madd.org Provides emotional support, victim advocacy, and assistance navigating the criminal justice system for families affected by drunk or impaired driving crashes.
Compassionate Friends (Grief Support) Phone: 1-877-969-0010 Website: https://www.compassionatefriends.org A national organization with local chapters that provide peer support for families who have lost a child, sibling, or grandchild at any age, from any cause.
These resources can provide critical support, information, and assistance as you navigate the aftermath of a serious or fatal traffic accident. However, for legal representation and advocacy to protect your rights and pursue compensation, contact GJEL Accident Attorneys at 1-866-218-3776 for a free consultation. Our experienced team can guide you through the legal process while you focus on healing and honoring your loved one’s memory.
