A Tragic Reminder of Trucking Dangers
On February 16, 2018, tragedy struck on the 10 Freeway in Rialto, California. Around 1:00 p.m., a concrete truck traveling westbound lost control, careened through the center divider, and slammed into multiple vehicles. The devastating crash involved four cars, a truck, and the concrete truck itself—leaving five innocent people dead and another person seriously injured.
The violent nature of the collision, and the resulting fire, is a grim reminder of the dangers that smaller vehicles face when sharing the road with massive commercial trucks. In accidents like this, the occupants of passenger cars have little chance of survival. Their vehicles are no match for the sheer weight and force of a fully loaded truck. Learn more about California truck accident dangers and the legal remedies available to victims.
The Need for Stronger Safety Measures
California’s freeways see daily tragedies involving heavy trucks, and this Rialto crash underscores the urgent need for legislative action. Potential safety measures could include:
- Dedicated truck lanes to separate large commercial vehicles from smaller passenger cars.
- Reduced speed limits for trucks to decrease stopping distances and the severity of crashes.
- Designated travel hours for heavy trucks to limit high-traffic interactions.
- Reinforced center dividers capable of withstanding the impact of large commercial vehicles.
Until such changes are made, California’s freeways will continue to pose a heightened risk of catastrophic accidents, leaving families shattered by the sudden and wrongful loss of their loved ones. For more details on your rights after a fatal crash, visit our California wrongful death attorney page.
Seeking Justice for Victims’ Families
In the aftermath of such incidents, wrongful death attorneys play a crucial role in holding negligent parties accountable—whether it’s the truck driver, the trucking company, or even government entities responsible for unsafe road designs. By pursuing civil actions, attorneys aim to secure financial compensation for the surviving family members, covering not only economic losses but also the immense emotional pain caused by the untimely deaths.
If the accident involved negligent trucking practices, such as excessive speeding or hours-of-service violations, additional claims may be made against the trucking company for unsafe operations. You can read more about this on our truck accidents page.
While no amount of money can replace the lives lost, these legal actions are essential in delivering a measure of justice and in encouraging safety reforms that could prevent future tragedies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accident Wrongful Death Claims
Who can file a wrongful death claim after a truck accident in California?
In California, the right to file a wrongful death claim typically belongs to the deceased person’s spouse, domestic partner, children, or other dependents. In some cases, other family members may also qualify.
What damages can be recovered in a truck accident wrongful death case?
Recoverable damages may include funeral and burial expenses, lost financial support, loss of companionship, and other related costs. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the at-fault party’s actions were especially reckless.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in California?
Under California law, most wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of death. However, cases involving government entities or special circumstances may have shorter deadlines.
Can multiple parties be held liable for a truck accident?
Yes. Liability may be shared among the truck driver, the trucking company, vehicle maintenance providers, or even government agencies responsible for roadway safety.
Why is hiring a wrongful death attorney important after a truck accident?
Truck accident wrongful death cases involve complex laws, large insurance policies, and aggressive defense strategies. A skilled wrongful death attorney can gather evidence, work with experts, and negotiate for the maximum compensation possible.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney regarding your specific situation.