Two passengers were killed, and two others sustained injuries after a two-axle box truck crashed into a tree on Interstate 5 south of Thornton, San Joaquin County, on Thursday afternoon, December 19, 2024.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 12:40 p.m. on southbound I-5 near Peltier Road.
The truck driver, who was traveling at about 65 mph, reportedly veered too far onto the shoulder while moving into the left lane. The truck left the roadway, traveled along the shoulder, and struck a large tree.
The impact caused the right side of the truck’s cab to be peeled back. Two passengers, seated in the front and rear right seats, were ejected from the vehicle despite wearing seat belts. One passenger was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other succumbed to injuries at a hospital. Their identities have not yet been released.
A third passenger sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and the driver suffered minor injuries. Authorities confirmed that DUI is not suspected as a factor in the crash.
The incident remains under investigation, and no further details have been provided.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
