Fatal Big Rig Crash on SR-99 in Turlock
A fatal big rig crash occurred on SR-99 in Turlock on the afternoon of Friday, May 20, 2022. The incident took place along the southbound lanes of State Route 99 near Lander Avenue at approximately 1:30 p.m., according to the California Highway Patrol.
Information on the Fatal Big Rig Crash on Southbound SR-99 in Turlock
CHP traffic officers indicated in an initial report that the crash involved a 2020 Kenworth tractor-trailer and a 2011 Buick SUV. Both vehicles were said to have been involved in a rear-end collision along the shoulder of southbound Highway 99.
The Buick driver, a 51-year-old Livingston woman, was transported to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto for immediate treatment of serious injuries. Sadly, she passed away during hospitalization. Officials indicated that the truck driver did not sustain injuries in the crash. Additional information on the fatal truck accident on SR-99 in Turlock was not immediately available due to an ongoing investigation.
What Surviving Family Members Should Know About Truck Accidents and Wrongful Death Cases
Given that crashes involving big rigs often result in major injuries or even death in comparison to passenger vehicle accidents, it is essential to identify all at-fault parties. That is because the list of potential defendants goes beyond just the truck driver. Liability for a collision involving a large commercial truck may include but is not limited to the manufacturer of the truck because of a vehicle defect, the trucking company that employed the driver, and the insurers that hold policies for each of these parties. Conversely, when a defect in a big rig contributes to a traffic collision, the manufacturer of the truck may be held liable for resulting damages through an auto products liability claim. Remember that evidence must be collected immediately before it is lost or destroyed. Accomplishing that requires sending a letter of preservation of evidence to all parties immediately.
To hold a trucking company liable for a crash, it must be proven through clear and compelling evidence that the incident occurred while the truck driver was on the job. It is not uncommon for trucking companies to pressure their drivers to meet strict delivery deadlines that often fail to comply with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. These federal trucking laws govern the amount of time a truck driver can be on the road in addition to the number of hours logged during a specific week and the time that is required to be taken off for rest between work shifts. Conversely, truck drivers and trucking companies are also expected to ensure that their big rigs are in safe and working condition. This includes conducting routine inspections and maintenance. When a breakdown occurs, truck drivers are expected to follow federal standards for displaying flares and other procedures for safely pulling over on the side of the road.
When a truck crash results in the loss of a loved one, it is essential to work with an experienced Turlock wrongful death lawyer immediately. That is because obtaining justice in such situations requires the expertise, skill, and knowledge that only an accident attorney can provide. When you retain legal counsel, you can rest assured knowing that everything will be taken care of so you can focus on healing. Your attorney will get to work quickly to obtain the fair compensation you need for funeral expenses, costs of medical treatment related to your loved one’s final injury, lost future financial support, and other losses. Keep in mind that strict filing criteria and deadlines generally apply to these cases, including the two-year statute of limitations and letters of preservation of evidence to the other side. Therefore, do not delay in requesting the assistance of an experienced lawyer in your area with your case. The video below provides useful information on what qualities you should look for in an attorney to represent you and your family.
Truck Accident Lawyer in Turlock
I’m Ed Smith, a Turlock truck accident lawyer. The loss of a close relative is devastating and painful for any family to deal with, particularly if it occurred because of the negligence of another party or entity. If you have experienced this because of a truck accident, contact our law firm immediately to have us take on the insurance company and protect your family’s best interests. At AutoAccident.com, you can depend on our experienced injury lawyers to stop at nothing to obtain the justice and fair compensation you and your family deserve. Our legal team is here to help and provide free, friendly case advice. Get started now with a free consultation by calling (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.
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