Unity Twp, PA – Woman Killed in Two-Car Crash on Rte 981

Unity Township, PA (May 17, 2026) – A woman died on Saturday night, May 16, following a two-vehicle collision on Route 981 in Westmoreland County.

Authorities said one vehicle was traveling along Route 981 when it collided with another vehicle on the roadway. Investigators have not released additional details regarding the events leading up to the collision.

Officials identified the deceased driver as 59-year-old Kimberly Ohler. She was transported to a nearby hospital following the accident, where she later died from injuries sustained in the crash.

The second driver involved in the collision suffered minor injuries. Authorities said that the person declined transportation from emergency medical personnel at the scene.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

We extend our sincere condolences to the family of Kimberly Ohler during this difficult time.

What Legal Options May Be Available After a Fatal Car Accident in Pennsylvania?

After a fatal car accident in Pennsylvania, surviving family members face difficult questions about what legal and financial options may be available in the aftermath of the loss. Wrongful death claims can arise when investigators believe another driver’s actions, unsafe roadway conditions, or other contributing factors played a role in the collision.

These claims may involve compensation connected to funeral expenses, medical costs incurred before death, lost financial support, and other damages recognized under Pennsylvania law.

Fatal crashes frequently require extensive investigations before liability can be fully evaluated by insurance companies or attorneys. Investigators may review crash reports, roadway evidence, vehicle damage, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage to better understand how the accident occurred.

In some cases, accident reconstruction specialists also examine factors such as vehicle speed, driver reaction time, visibility, weather conditions, and roadway design leading up to the impact.

Families dealing with a deadly collision may also need to handle insurance communication, hospital billing, funeral arrangements, and requests for official records while coping with the emotional and financial effects of the loss, so keeping organized documentation, including medical records, funeral expenses, insurance correspondence, and repair information, can help make the process easier to manage.

Since fatal accident claims often involve detailed investigations and multiple parties, reviews may continue for weeks or longer before final determinations are made.

Pennsylvania follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning compensation questions generally depend on determining who was responsible for the collision. In some situations, multiple insurance policies or legal issues may become involved during the review process, especially in crashes involving commercial vehicles, several drivers, or disputed accounts of the accident.

A consultation with a wrongful death lawyer can help families navigate claims, ensure proper documentation, and protect their legal rights during an extremely difficult time.

At Edelstein Martin & Nelson, we assist families across Pennsylvania in managing accident reports, communicating with insurance companies, and exploring potential legal options following serious or fatal crashes. Our experienced team provides guidance tailored to each family’s circumstances, helping to clarify next steps and safeguard both emotional and financial well-being.

For support and advice, you can contact Edelstein Martin & Nelson at 888‑630‑4409 to speak with our Unity Township wrongful death attorney and discuss your case.