Two men, aged 33 and 22, were killed in a large truck accident in Merced after the driver of a big rig veered into oncoming traffic and struck three vehicles.
According to a report in The Merced Sun-Star, the fatal truck accident occurred early on the morning of June 21. California Highway Patrol officials said three sedans were traveling south on Highway 50 as they approached a 2022 Volvo big rig headed in the other direction near Furtado Road in El Nido.
Ongoing Investigation into Merced Big Rig Crash
Officials said, for an unknown reason, the large truck veered into the oncoming traffic, striking the three cars. A driver, a 33-year-old man in a 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe, and a passenger, a 22-year-old man in a Ford Fusion, were confirmed dead shortly after officers arrived.
A 20-year-old man driving the Ford suffered major injuries and was transported to an area hospital. A 54-year-old man driving a 2015 Chevrolet Sonic and the 28-year-old man driving the big rig did not report any injuries. CHP officials say drugs or alcohol don’t seem to have played a part in this fatal crash. The investigation is still ongoing.
Our deepest sympathies go out to the family members of the deceased victims. We also wish the driver who was seriously injured the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Causes and Compensation Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that it was the large truck that veered away and struck the three vehicles in opposing lanes of traffic. These types of crashes can be devastating as evidenced in this incident that claimed the lives of two people and injured a third severely.
It is unclear what caused the driver of the truck to lose control. While officials say impairment was not a factor, it is not known whether the truck driver was distracted or fatigued when this crash occurred. Driver fatigue and driver distractions are common causes of large truck accidents. There are federal Hours of Service (HOS) rules truck drivers must abide by. These trucking regulations are in place to make sure drivers of big rigs get sufficient rest and sleep before they get on the road.
If you have been injured in a truck accident or if you have lost loved ones in a big rig accident, it is important that you seek the counsel of an experienced California truck accident lawyer who can help you gather crucial evidence such as truck driver logs, vehicle maintenance logs, cell phone records, etc. to help determine fault and liability. In such cases, truck drivers, trucking companies, large corporations, and other entities may be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages, and losses caused. Those affected may be able to receive significant compensation.
Source: https://www.mercedsunstar.com/news/local/article262720032.html