BAKER, California- One individual is dead, and two others are in critical condition following a three-truck collision on I-15 in Baker, CA.
The collision involved a box truck, a tractor-trailer, and a Ford F-350 towing a 22-foot trailer. Investigators did not release information on the cause of the accident as an investigation continues.
One unidentified person was killed in the accident. Authorities reported two others were airlifted to local hospitals with serious injuries. A fourth person suffered minor injuries in the collision.
No further information was immediately available.
Brief commentary on fatal, multi-vehicle crash in Baker
The details provided suggest this was a particularly dangerous accident. We want to extend our deepest condolences to the family of the individual who passed away, and we wish those injured a speedy recovery. An investigation is currently being conducted, but the facts suggest there may be many potential causes, and the victims and their loved ones deserve an exhaustive independent investigation to ensure all responsibility is determined.
One increasingly frequent cause of these types of collisions is distracted driving. Between radios, navigation systems, and smartphones, there is a lot happening in the cabs of these trucks that may cause the driver to take their eyes off the road. Sadly, it only takes seconds for crashes like this to occur. Drivers of all vehicles have a duty to operate their vehicle safely at all times, and if any investigation reveals a driver neglected this duty, the family of the deceased and the injured victims will have a basis to recover against the driver, his insurance provider, and any potential employer.
Alternatively, we see many accidents like this one caused by a defect in the vehicle. Whether it is a sudden tire failure or faulty braking systems, a sudden mechanical issue will cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle and crash into its surroundings. Our firm is handling many accidents like this one that resulted from a sudden steer-axle tire failure. These are especially dangerous on tractor-trailers, given their size relative to other vehicles.
Whatever the cause is determined to be, the victims and their loved ones deserve answers and the opportunity to recover the damages they have suffered because of this accident. Our firm conducts investigations like this regularly and is experienced in helping families identify wrongdoing and hold the responsible parties responsible. Our hearts go out to the loved ones of the deceased, and we wish a speedy recovery to those who were injured.
