Accident on SR 99 Blocks all Northbound Lanes Due to Overturned Big Rig
An overturned big rig snarled highway traffic in Sacramento on March 24 following a multiple-vehicle collision. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported the crash around 2:13 in the afternoon along northbound State Route 99 just north of the Florin Road eastbound on-ramp. According to police, the accident involved three to four additional vehicles, and when the big rig overturned, it was left blocking all the lanes.
SigAlert Issued on Highway Due to Accident
A SigAlert was issued telling motorists to use caution and take alternate routes. The overturned big rig reportedly blocked all the lanes, and vehicles were passing on the right-hand side and through the center divider. Authorities began diverting the traffic off at 47th Street and diverting it back on past the site of the accident.
Overturned Big Rig Accident Being Investigated to Determine Cause
The semi was fully loaded and weighed about 80,000 pounds, which created a problem in uprighting it. Fortunately, the overturned big rig was not carrying hazardous materials. Another vehicle involved in the crash was identified as a Chevy Trailblazer, which had to be towed from the scene. All lanes were reported as open by the CHP around 4:13 p.m. The accident is under investigation by the CHP to determine how it occurred and to assign fault.
Truck Accidents on Busy Highways
A truck accident that occurs on a traffic-intense highway can often lead to multiple injuries. This is due to several factors, one of which is the speed at which vehicles are traveling. The second involves the lack of space between vehicles, whether in front and back or on the sides.
When a truck overturns, vehicles in adjacent lanes are threatened because of the size of the big rig and because there is nowhere to go. Oftentimes, they try to get out of the truck’s way, which can lead to a subsequent crash with other vehicles.
What Causes an Overturned Big Rig
Truck drivers who operate a big rig are confronted with problems that are not found in passenger vehicles. For instance, a trucker is unable to make a quick maneuver to avoid an accident. In heavy traffic, many vehicles cut in and out of lanes, and this alone could cause an overturned big rig.
Problems With Loaded Cargo
Another reason an overturned big rig occurs is due to poor distribution of cargo or overloading. Truckers and trucking companies are obligated to load cargo in a safe and secure manner. When this doesn’t happen, the cargo can shift at highway speeds, causing an imbalance that can lead to an overturned big rig. When this happens, the trucker or trucking company is liable for the damages that are caused to passenger vehicle drivers.
Maintenance as the Cause of an Overturned Big Rig
Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles and ensuring that any defects or worn equipment are replaced. For instance, a worn tire is capable of causing an overturned big rig as it loses balance due to a blowout. Leaking brake lines or worn brakes can prevent the driver from being able to slow down or stop, which can also result in a rollover crash.
Sacramento Truck Accident Lawyer
My name is Ed Smith, and I am a Sacramento truck accident lawyer. A big rig accident can result in serious injuries. If you were injured by one of these large trucks, I can offer you free, friendly advice if you phone me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. An online contact form is available also.
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My law firm has helped many Sacramentans since 1982 in getting the compensation they deserve for their traffic collision injuries, claims involving wrongful death, and many others.
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Attributed photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/semi-accident-crash-truck-2659736/
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