Solo Vehicle Crash in Elk Grove
A solo vehicle crash involving a big rig on February 1 in Elk Grove occurred along Interstate 5 southbound, creating a traffic hazard. The big rig overturned around 1:35 p.m. near Laguna Boulevard and resulted in a spill of around 100 gallons of diesel fuel. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), two lanes along I-5 were closed down as a Hazmat crew worked to clean up the spill, which presented a significant hazard to motorists. The CHP reported that there were no injuries resulting from the accident, and drunk driving was not suspected as a factor in the crash. The accident is being investigated by authorities along with the CHP to determine how it happened.
Diesel Fluid Spill
Diesel fluid spills in a solo vehicle crash can pose a problem for the driver, other motorists, and the environment. When a petroleum product is spilled, caution must be taken due to its toxicity. Some of the consequences of a petroleum product spill are:
- When diesel fluid or other petroleum products such as heating oil are spilled, there is a risk that it might reach a storm drain. This could carry it out to a storm sewer where there is a possibility it will come into contact with aquatic life, killing it.
- Petroleum can mix with groundwater and contaminate the water in nearby wells.
- The mixture of petroleum with sewer water can limit the ability of a sewer treatment plant to process the sewage.
- Most petroleum products have a slippery texture, and this can affect traffic in the area until it is cleaned up.
- Diesel fluid is flammable and can be dangerous when leaked onto the roadway. Not only can it pose a risk to passing vehicles, but diesel fluid once ignited can cause a spreading blaze.
How a Diesel Fluid Spill Is Cleared
The spill response team will use a two-pronged approach. First, they will place diesel/oil absorbent products on the spill. If a granulated substance is used, it is usually sprinkled on the spill, or a berm is built to contain the spread. If absorbent pads are used, they can be placed at the edges of the spill first. Second, the remainder of the spill is covered. Once the absorbent is saturated, it is removed. The process is repeated until the spill is gone. The contaminated material is then properly disposed of. The area is washed and rinsed once the absorbent/oil mix is removed.
Tanker Truck Crashes
Tanker trucks are a common sight on highways in California. They carry a variety of products, some harmless and others toxic. Some of the dangers and risks of tanker trucks are:
- An accident impact can cause the flammable contents some tankers carry to explode and result in a fire. The fire can consume the occupants of the truck and spread to other vehicles as well as the environment.
- Tankers carry a high risk of rollover due to their high center of gravity and tendency to tip over. This risk is influenced by the speed of the tanker and the load. This can cause harm to other drivers on the road.
- The liquid in a tanker can move forward in the tank when the driver applies the brakes. This surge can make the vehicle move in a forward direction.
- Sloshing of the contents is problematic for the driver. The tank is not filled to the brim since fluids expand when they are heated. Because there is room for the liquid to move, when the brakes are applied, or the vehicle makes a turn, there is sloshing of the fluid. This results in an unbalanced state, and the driver may lose control.
Violations
Some ways a tanker truck driver may be negligent are:
- The load has too much or little liquid
- Following too closely and not being able to stop gradually
- Braking too hard
- Driving at a speed that is in keeping with the load’s weight and type
- Not resting according to federal standards for truck drivers
What an Attorney Can Do
At our firm, we are cognizant of the need to prove liability after a tanker truck accident. When a spill is involved, there may be claims for injury or environmental damage. Our investigators look into the driver’s actions and lack of care or knowledge of safety procedures. Since trucking companies are responsible for training their drivers, an injured person may hold the company liable. Our investigators check the training received by the driver as well as inspect the truck logs. We review police reports for errors, use accident reconstruction, and obtain videos that show the accident as it happened. Once all evidence is garnered, it is given to our legal team to help build a case for the injured party.
Elk Grove Truck Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, an Elk Grove truck accident lawyer. After a tanker truck accident, whether it is a solo vehicle crash or not, the risk of harm to others is high. Call me for free and friendly advice at (916) 694-0002 in town or (800) 404-5400 long-distance. You can also reach me online.
I’ve been able to help numerous clients in car accidents, truck crashes, and traumatic injuries of all kinds.
I am a proud member of the Million Dollar Associates and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
Learn more about my practice at the following links:
Photo Attribution: Depositphotos_2967581_l-2015
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