[05-21-2025] Madera County, CA – Man Seriously Injured After Big Rig Jackknifes and Hits Car on Highway 41 in Oakhurst

A man sustained major injuries following a crash involving a big rig and a Toyota Prius on Highway 41 in Oakhurst, Madera County, on Wednesday morning, May 21, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred around 10:30 a.m. when the semi-truck left the roadway and the driver overcorrected. The truck and trailer jackknifed, colliding with a 2012 Toyota Prius and blocking the highway south of Road 630.

The driver of the Prius, identified as a 32-year-old man from Albany, suffered major injuries and was transported by ambulance to Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno.

Authorities confirmed that drugs and alcohol were not factors in the crash. The incident remains under investigation by the Oakhurst division of the CHP.

Speak With Our Truck Accident Attorneys In Madera County, CA

Accidents involving large trucks can result in serious injuries and cause major disruptions to your daily life. These accidents often lead to medical bills, missed work, and a long recovery process, leaving many unsure of the next steps.

Our truck accident attorneys in Madera County are here to help you understand your options. These cases can be complex, often involving multiple parties such as trucking companies and insurance providers. To navigate this process, it may be necessary to review records, reports, and other important documents carefully. Having guidance through these steps can help you stay organized and informed as you move forward.

If you want to discuss your case, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form to schedule a free consultation.

Steps To Take After A Truck Accident

A collision with a large commercial vehicle can be frightening and confusing, leaving you unsure of what steps to take next. Protecting both your health and your legal rights is crucial, and knowing what to do immediately after the incident can make a significant difference.

Here’s a guide to help you:

1. Ensure Safety — If you are able, move your vehicle to the side of the road or a safe area away from traffic. Stay clear of moving vehicles and wait in a secure location until help arrives.
2. Check For Injuries — Start by assessing your own condition. Once you are sure you are okay, check on passengers and others involved. If anyone appears seriously injured or unresponsive, call 911 immediately to request emergency assistance.
3. Document The Scene — If you are physically able, take photos or videos of the accident scene. Capture the position of the vehicles, road conditions, any visible injuries, and damage. Collect the truck driver’s name, license number, employer details, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details as well.
4. Get Medical Attention — Even if you feel fine, it is important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away. A medical evaluation can help detect hidden injuries and create a record that may be important later.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company — Report the accident to your insurance provider and give them a clear summary of what happened. Avoid giving a recorded statement until you understand your rights. Even if the other party is expected to cover the damages, your insurer may offer guidance and support through the claims process.
6. Consult A Truck Accident Attorney — If you have questions about your situation, speaking with a truck accident attorney may be helpful. Our team in Madera County can review the details of your case, help you stay organized, and provide guidance on the next steps to take.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Truck Accidents Statistics

In 2023, there were 5,375 large trucks involved in fatal crashes, which is an 8.4% decrease compared to 2022. However, this number represents a 43% increase over the past 10 years. The rate of fatal crashes involving large trucks, measured per 100 million miles traveled, decreased by 8% from 2022 but increased by 22% over the past decade.

Large trucks are defined as any medium or heavy truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) greater than 10,000 pounds, excluding buses and motor homes. This includes both commercial and non-commercial vehicles.

In terms of total traffic accidents, large trucks were involved in 9% of all fatal crashes, and they accounted for 10% of the total vehicle miles traveled.