A Santa Clarita family is grieving after a tragic head-on crash killed two parents and left their daughter hospitalized with severe, life-altering injuries.
Genry and Patty Ortiz were driving home from church Friday night with their daughter, Erin, when the collision occurred. Both parents died from their injuries. Erin survived but remains hospitalized.
According to family members, she has suffered multiple fractures and serious trauma.
A Family Facing Unimaginable Loss
Erin’s brother, David, and his wife, Kaitlyn, traveled from Colorado to be by her side.
“She’s doing better than I expected,” David said. “She’s got a lot of fractures.”
Even as they focus on Erin’s recovery, the family is mourning the sudden loss of both parents.
A GoFundMe has been created to assist with:
- Funeral expenses
- Ongoing medical care
- Recovery-related costs
Why Head-On Crashes Are So Dangerous
Head-on collisions are among the deadliest types of crashes.
They often involve:
- Combined high speeds
- Direct front-end impact
- Sudden deceleration forces
These crashes frequently result in:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal trauma
- Internal bleeding
- Multiple fractures
- Fatal injuries
Survivors often face long-term rehabilitation and permanent physical or cognitive impairments.
When Severe Injuries Become “Life-Altering”
“Life-altering injuries” can include:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Memory or cognitive impairment
- Chronic pain
- Mobility limitations
- Emotional trauma
- Permanent disability
Recovery may take months. In some cases, it lasts a lifetime.
Rights After a Fatal or Serious Crash in California
When a head-on crash is caused by negligence, families may have legal rights.
In fatal cases:
Surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60.
Compensation may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
For surviving victims with severe injuries:
Compensation may include:
- Emergency and hospital care
- Surgery and rehabilitation
- Long-term therapy
- Future medical costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
If another driver caused the crash, liability may be based on negligence.
If roadway conditions contributed, Government Code § 835 may apply.
Take the First Step Toward Justice: How We Can Help
No family should face the aftermath of a tragic head-on crash alone.
At the Brain Injury Help Center, we offer:
- Free consultations
- No-win, no-fee representation
- Comprehensive support, from dealing with insurance companies to seeking maximum compensation
Medical treatment you need. Money you deserve.
If your family has been affected by a fatal crash or life-altering injury, contact the Brain Injury Help Center today for a free consultation. We are here to help you navigate the road ahead.
