Two People Trapped in Big Rig Crash on Highway 166 Near Cuyama

Santa Barbara County Fire personnel and the California Highway Patrol are on scene of a big rig that went approximately 30 feet over the side of state Route 166, about one mile west of Cottonwood Canyon.

CHP received the dispatch call at about 12:30 p.m. Thursday. The semitrailer went off of Highway 166 and into the nearby creek bed trapping the two occupants inside.

Both, the driver and passenger, both men, were extricated from the wreckage by fire personnel using the Jaws of Life. One person suffered major injuries and was flown to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. The other suffered moderate injuries and was flown to Marian Regional Medical Center for medical treatment, according to Santa Barbara County Capt. Dave Zaniboni.

Highway 166 has been shut down in both directions while the incident is ongoing. It’s unknown how long the road will be closed for.

Motorists are advised to use detours by taking Highway 46. Westbound lane of Highway 166 towards Santa Maria is open but expect delays until the incident is cleared.

The cause of the crash is under investigation by CHP.