Oakland Big Rig Crash Blocks Lanes on Highway 24

Oakland Big Rig Crash Occurs Near S.R. 13

An Oakland big rig crash on westbound State Route 24 just east of State Route 13 caused major traffic disruptions January 22 after a semi truck overturned and collided with several other vehicles, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The crash was reported around 3:49 p.m. and involved a big rig and as many as five to seven vehicles, blocking multiple lanes of traffic. 

Semi Blocks Roadway in Oakland Big Rig Crash

CHP officers and Oakland Fire Department medics responded to the scene, where one person was seen lying on the ground near a construction truck. The semi reportedly turned over and slid into other vehicles. A broken saddle tank on the truck was leaking fluid, prompting hazmat concerns. Officials said the rig was hauling roughly 7,000 pounds of cardboard at the time of the crash.

Investigation Continues Into Cause of a Big Rig Crash

No information on injuries has been released. The CHP is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Understanding Why a Big Rig Overturns

A big rig crash can happen in seconds, often due to the size, weight, and handling limits of large commercial vehicles. Common causes of a truck overturn include excessive speed on curves, overloading, sudden lane changes, improperly balanced cargo, or mechanical failure. Weather conditions like rain or high winds can also destabilize a fully loaded semi. When a big rig’s center of gravity shifts unexpectedly, the truck may roll over, sometimes spilling its cargo onto the roadway and creating dangerous obstacles for other drivers.

The Chain Reaction on Other Vehicles

An overturning big rig can have devastating effects on surrounding traffic. Other vehicles in adjacent lanes or closely behind the truck may be struck directly or forced into secondary collisions while attempting to avoid debris. In an Oakland big rig crash, multiple vehicles can become trapped between the jackknifed trailer and highway barriers. These chain-reaction accidents often lead to serious injuries or fatalities for drivers and passengers in smaller cars, which have little protection against the sheer size and force of a flipping semi.

Determining Fault in a Truck Overturn Accident

A skilled truck accident lawyer investigates the cause of the crash to determine who should be held accountable. This process includes reviewing the truck’s black box data, driver logbooks, maintenance records, and cargo manifests. Fault may rest with the truck driver for negligent operation, the trucking company for inadequate training or overworking the driver, or even a third party for improper loading or maintenance errors. After a collision involving a big rig, an attorney can use evidence such as skid marks, witness statements, and expert reconstruction analysis to build a strong claim for liability.

Recoverable Compensation for Truck Accident Injuries

Those injured in a big rig collision may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and long-term rehabilitation costs. In cases of severe or permanent injury, compensation may also cover future care needs and diminished earning potential. After an Oakland big rig crash, pursuing a personal injury claim allows those injured to hold negligent parties financially responsible while helping stabilize their recovery and future wellbeing.

Call Oakland Truck Accident Lawyer Ed Smith

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck collision, Oakland truck accident lawyer Ed Smith offers compassionate and experienced legal help. Call (510) 631-0200 or visit us online at AutoAccident.com for free, friendly advice today. We understand the physical pain and financial burdens these accidents cause and are here to help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Photo attribution: Pixabay

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