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Rio Vista Big Rig Accident Involves Rollover and Oil Spill

Home » Rio Vista Big Rig Accident Involves Rollover and Oil Spill
February 15, 2023
Edward Smith

Rollover Big Rig Accident Occurs on SR 160

A big rig accident in Rio Vista caused minor injuries to the driver when his tractor-tailer overturned. The collision occurred around 9:35 a.m. along northbound State Route 160 at West Sherman. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) stated that the overturned rig blocked the northbound lane, and fuel leaked from the vehicle. 

Oil Spill Contained Following Big Rig Accident

The Rio Vista highway was shut down and a SigAlert issued. The big rig was hauling a 20-foot trailer loaded with furniture. Fire department crews arrived to contain the spill and determined that around 15 gallons of oil had been lost from the truck. However, crews put up dams to stop the flow, and it did not get into the water system. The CHP is investigating the accident to find out how the rollover accident occurred.

Big Rig Accident Rollover Causes 

There are several factors that can contribute to a big rig rollover, including:

  • Vehicle weight distribution: An uneven weight distribution can cause a big rig to roll over, especially when making sharp turns or sudden lane changes.
  • Speed: Excessive speed can make it more difficult for a driver to control the vehicle, especially on winding roads or during sudden changes in weather conditions.
  • Driver fatigue: Driver fatigue is a common cause of big rig accidents, as tired drivers may have slower reaction times and make mistakes while driving.
  • Road conditions: Wet or slippery roads can cause a big rig to skid or lose traction, increasing the risk of a rollover.
  • Overloading: Overloading the trailer can cause a big rig to be more prone to rollovers, as the weight of the cargo can shift and create an uneven distribution.
  • Tire failure: A blown tire or one with worn tread can cause a loss of control and increase the risk of a big rig rollover.
  • Steering problems: If a big rig’s steering system is damaged or malfunctioning, it can make it difficult for the driver to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a rollover.
  • Distracted driving: Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone while on the road, can cause a driver to make mistakes and increase the risk of a rollover.

How a Big Rig Rollover Can Impact Other Vehicles

When a large commercial truck or big rig is involved in an accident such as a rollover, the weight and size of the vehicle can have serious impacts on other cars on the road. Major damage can occur to smaller vehicles that are involved in the accident. Smaller vehicles can be pushed under or over the big rig, resulting in serious injury. 

Additionally, when a large truck rolls over, it is likely to spill its cargo onto the roadway, which can create slick conditions for other drivers who are nearby. This can result in additional accidents and further damage to vehicles on the roadway. 

When a large commercial truck, such as a big rig, is involved in an accident, the consequences can be significant and far-reaching. Other vehicles on the road are especially vulnerable in these types of scenarios, and anyone who has been involved should seek legal advice and representation from an accident attorney to ensure their rights are protected.

California Truck Accident Lawyer

I’m Ed Smith, a California truck accident lawyer. Our free and friendly advice is available at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 if you were injured by a negligent truck driver. We can also be reached online.

Our injury lawyers are proud to be members of the following associations, which reflects how hard they work to obtain fair compensation for their clients:

To learn more about how we have handled truck accident claims, click on the links below:

Photo attribution: Image by Denise McQuillen from Pixabay 

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