A driver was killed in a collision involving a sedan and a big rig on Interstate 5 near Gustine in Merced County on Thursday morning, January 16, 2025.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Los Banos CHP officers responded to the crash in the northbound lanes of I-5, just south of Taglio Road, shortly after 9:00 a.m.
Investigators reported that a 2022 International truck with a trailer was traveling northbound in the number one lane and had slowed or stopped due to traffic. A 2011 BMW traveling behind the truck failed to slow down and collided with the rear of the trailer, causing the sedan to become lodged underneath the truck.
The BMW sustained severe front-end damage, and the driver was pronounced dead at the scene by responding fire personnel. The identity of the victim has been withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Authorities have not yet determined whether drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash. The investigation is ongoing.
Consult Our Trusted Truck Accident Lawyers In Gustine, CA
Truck accidents can lead to severe physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. Securing legal representation after a truck accident is crucial to protecting your rights and obtaining the maximum compensation you deserve.
Schedule a free consultation with our experienced truck accident attorneys. Led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our law firm has decades of success in representing victims and their families in truck accident claims.
Our top-rated Gustine truck accident lawyers are prepared to assist with your insurance claim or represent you in court if necessary. Arash Law has recovered over $500 million for clients and is recognized as one of California’s most reputable personal injury law firms.
To speak with one of our personal injury attorneys, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.
Steps To Take After A Truck Accident In Gustine, CA
After a truck accident, staying at the scene until authorities and medical personnel arrive is essential. If possible, move your vehicle off the road and begin gathering evidence to support your claim. Once you’ve collected the necessary information, notify your insurance company and contact our award-winning legal team.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a truck accident:
- Move To A Safe Location – If it’s safe, document the scene with photos and videos before moving your vehicle to the road’s shoulder. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If moving the vehicle isn’t safe, wait for emergency responders to guide you.
- Call Emergency Services And Get Medical Help – Contact emergency responders immediately. Even if you feel fine, allow medical personnel to assess you since some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Keep records of medical visits, diagnoses, treatments, and related expenses for your case.
- Exchange Information With Other Drivers – Collect the names, contact numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, insurance providers, and policy numbers from all involved drivers.
- Document The Scene With Photos And Videos – Capture detailed images and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, guardrails, and any relevant surroundings. Record any conversations or interactions that could support your claim.
- Photograph Injuries – Take clear photos of any injuries you or others have sustained to document the extent of the damages.
- Gather Witness Statements – Speak to bystanders who witnessed the accident. Collect their contact information and statements to strengthen your case.
- Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident to your insurer, but avoid giving official or recorded statements immediately. Admitting fault or being misled could negatively impact your financial recovery.
- Do Not Admit Fault – Refrain from apologizing or accepting blame. Provide only factual information when speaking with the police, and be as thorough as possible.
- Keep A Recovery Journal – Document your physical and emotional recovery by noting your symptoms, treatments, and how your injuries impact your daily life. This can be valuable evidence for your personal injury claim.
- Contact Our Skilled Truck Accident Lawyers – Call the experienced California truck accident attorneys at Arash Law. Our team thoroughly investigates all responsible parties to maximize your compensation and is here to answer your questions and concerns.
If you’re having difficulty obtaining an accident report or are being pressured by insurance companies, our California truck accident lawyers can handle communications on your behalf.
Truck Accident Statistics
According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), large truck collisions caused 4,764 deaths in 2022. Of these fatalities, 17% were truck occupants, 66% were passenger vehicle occupants, and 16% were pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorcyclists.
Large truck accidents made up 11% of all motor vehicle crash fatalities that year. Of these crashes, 73% involved tractor-trailers, and 28% involved single-unit trucks, with some accidents involving both types of trucks.
Regarding crash locations, 49% occurred on major roads (excluding interstates and freeways), 35% happened on interstates and freeways, and 16% took place on minor roads.