Elk Grove Tanker Truck Crash Causes Hazardous Spill

Home » Elk Grove Tanker Truck Crash Causes Hazardous Spill
June 09, 2020
Edward Smith

Northbound State Route 99 Crash in Elk Grove

A tanker truck crash with a sedan occurred in Elk Grove on June 5 that caused major damage to both vehicles. The accident happened around 5:46 in the morning. It occurred along northbound State Route 99, south of the Grant Line Road exit ramp, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). At the time of this report, it wasn’t revealed whether anyone was injured in the crash.

Details of the Tanker Truck Crash

The tanker truck sustained serious damage in the accident, including a broken axle. It was reported that the tank had ruptured, and the liquid was trickling down the side into the ground. A Hazmat crew was called to the scene of the tanker truck crash to take care of the spill. A tow truck with a flatbed trailer was required to remove the vehicle. 

Traffic Backed up for a Long Distance

A Sigalert was issued because the traffic had come to a full stop and was backed up as far as Twin Cities Road south of Elk Grove. Northbound traffic along Route 99 was diverted at Arno Road. Because of the difficulty in getting to the traffic accident site, the Sacramento Fire Department moved a K-rail, which is a temporary concrete barrier, in order to bypass the traffic. This further complicated the situation because the K-rail had to be replaced before traffic could be allowed to pass. The roadway reopened around noon.

Tanker Truck Accidents

A tanker truck frequently carries hazardous materials such as gasoline, pesticides and chemicals that can be both flammable and toxic. This is why a collision with one is so dangerous. A leak from a tanker truck can create a danger to nearby motorists and residents if toxic spillage occurs. At times, these accidents occur due to a defect in the tank or if it hasn’t been properly closed and lead to serious injuries. In cases such as these, the driver of the tanker truck or company may be held liable. In a case where a defect occurs, a product liability claim may be placed against the manufacturer and others.

Investigation of a Truck Accident

Trucks are regulated by the federal government and the state. In addition, some drivers are independent operators, while others are a company employee. An investigation into a truck accident can include:

  • Reviewing the police report for errors and talking to witnesses to the truck crash.
  • Accident reconstruction is performed.
  • The investigators check to see if the driver held a license to drive a tanker truck and whether they had been Hazmat trained.
  • The records of the company are examined to see if there have been problems in the past or they have received citations for poor vehicle maintenance.
  • The driver’s record is looked at for past infractions.
  • The ELD or logbook is examined to see whether it has been falsified or indicates the driver was speeding.
  • Traffic surveillance and business cameras are sought to determine if the tanker truck crash was caught on tape.

Once the evidence is compiled, it is given over to our experienced lawyers, who use it to build a case. It is used in insurance company negotiations for the injured client. If this is unsuccessful, the evidence can be used in a court of law to obtain the compensation the client deserves.

Truck Accident Lawyer in Elk Grove

I’m Ed Smith, a truck accident lawyer in Elk Grove. Truck accidents often result in serious injuries. However, if negligence by the driver or his or her company was the cause, a claim may be filed for personal injury damages. Call me for my free and friendly advice at (916) 694-0002 or (800) 404-5400. You are also welcome to contact me by filling out the online form.

Top 1 Percent and the Million Dollar Forum are groups I belong to.

I’ve helped obtain fair compensation for Elk Grove residents since 1982 for their accident injuries, including cases involving wrongful deaths, traffic crashes and government claims.

Learn more about my law firm by visiting: 

Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/peterbilt-truck-tractor-tanker-3578297/

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