Dinora Gomez dies in multi-vehicle crash on Highway 101

Wrong-way Toyota Tacoma struck Toyota Corolla in northbound lanes south of Jolon Road

January 10, 2026 | Monterey, CA

A tragic multivehicle accident on Highway 101 in Monterey County claimed the life of 33-year-old Dinora Maribel Gomez from Salinas. 

Authorities attribute the crash to a suspected impaired driver traveling the wrong way.

Dinora Maribel Gomez, 33, of Salinas, was killed when a wrong-way Toyota Tacoma struck her Toyota Corolla on Highway 101 south of Jolon Road in Monterey County.

What Happened in the Crash?

The incident unfolded around 9:50 p.m. on Jan. 10 when a Toyota Tacoma, driven southbound in the northbound lanes south of Jolon Road, collided head-on with Gomez's Toyota Corolla. The collision forced the Corolla southward, where it struck a northbound Honda Accord traveling at approximately 60 mph in the No. 2 lane.

• Victim: Dinora Maribel Gomez, pronounced dead at the scene due to blunt-force trauma.
• Suspect Vehicle: Toyota Tacoma, driver injured and arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
• Additional Injuries: An 11-year-old passenger in the Corolla was airlifted to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center with major injuries. Occupants of the Honda Accord sustained moderate to minor injuries and sought treatment independently.
• Investigating Agency: California Highway Patrol (CHP).

Why Do Wrong-Way Crashes Like This Occur?

Wrong-way driving incidents often stem from impairment, disorientation, or signage issues. In this case, preliminary findings point to alcohol or drugs as a primary factor, heightening the collision's severity.

Drunk Driving Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes. The table below summarizes key data:

These figures underscore the persistent danger of impaired motorists on roadways like Highway 101.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in impaired driving cases to uncover all contributing factors, such as blood-alcohol levels.

“Drunken and drugged drivers face criminal charges after accidents causing harm or death. Beyond criminal penalties, victims' families may seek compensation via civil lawsuits against the at-fault party,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “Attorneys can provide compassionate support, safeguarding rights and ensuring accountability for reckless behavior in cases such as this.”

• Independent investigations are essential to determine impairment levels and other elements.
• Families may pursue claims for funeral costs, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.
• Civil actions often follow when negligence, like DUI, results in fatalities.

“A wrongful death occurs when negligent acts lead to someone's passing. In vehicle crashes involving unsafe driving or impairment, relatives can typically file civil suits against the responsible driver,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.

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