Truck Accident on I-80 Causes Massive Traffic Backup as Eastbound Lanes Are Blocked
A FedEx truck accident occurred when it overturned on the Yolo Causeway on I-80 on January 25, 2021. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported the crash east of Chiles Road around 10:15 p.m. and blocked all eastbound lanes on Interstate 80, causing a massive backup. Fifteen minutes later, a SigAlert was issued to warn motorists to try and find alternate routes.
Multiple Fire Departments Respond to Overturned Truck Accident
Fire Departments from West Sacramento and Davis responded to the accident, and it was reported that one party had to be extricated from their vehicle. No information was released by CHP traffic officials about possible injuries. Weather conditions may have contributed to the FedEx truck accident due to the dangerous winter storm that had struck the Sacramento area.
Accidents Involving Big Rigs
An accident that involves a big rig is always potentially dangerous, not only to the driver but to other vehicles sharing the roadway. A big rig accident can result in a rollover, jackknife, or an underride/override collision that can be deadly. In an accident that involves an 80,000-pound truck and a much smaller vehicle, those who are in the passenger car face the prospect of serious injuries. If the accident is caused by a negligent truck driver or an outside influence, those injured may claim fair compensation for their injuries and damages incurred.
Negligence in a FedEx Truck Accident
Some of the reasons a FedEx truck accident happens include:
- Speeding: It is always dangerous for a motorist to speed, but it is even worse if the driver is a trucker because of the large size and weight of the semi-truck. If someone is injured in a FedEx truck accident, they may claim financial compensation.
- Inadequate training: With the shortage of truckers around the nation, some companies hire poorly trained drivers. This can easily lead to a severe injury accident.
- Neglected truck maintenance: It is vitally important that a truck has regular maintenance performed, especially on the brake system and tires. Sometimes, the truck is sent out on the road because the company or driver does not want to take the time to make repairs. A FedEx truck accident could occur as a result.
- Unrealistic scheduling and company pressure: Today, more people are ordering online. This leads to a much higher rate of deliveries and pressure to get those packages to their destination. A FedEx truck accident can occur because the driver is rushing to make those deliveries on schedule.
- Inclement weather: Rain, sleet, and fog, as well as other forms of inclement weather, take their toll when it comes to safety on the road. It is imperative that vehicles slow down and the driver exercise caution when driving in bad weather conditions. This is especially true of big rig drivers since the trucks are less able to compensate for quick turns, fast braking, and other maneuvers.
Recovering Compensation Following a Crash With a Big Rig
FedEx carries high insurance coverage on each truck, which does not include any umbrella policies carried by the company. This is an essential factor in terms of compensation. While the truck driver can be held responsible, so can the company. This falls under the rule of vicarious liability, which specifies that the employer is responsible for the actions of their employees as long as they occur during work hours.
Truck Accident Lawyer in Sacramento
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento truck accident lawyer. Truck accidents can result in severe injuries and even fatalities. If you or your family has been involved in a Sacramento truck accident, call our legal team at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice. You can also reach us online.
We have helped numerous clients recover the compensation they deserve in truck accidents, traumatic injuries, and wrongful deaths, among others, since 1982.
To learn more about our law firm, please click on the links below:
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Photo Attribution: By “Bannon Morrissy” via Unsplash
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