[05-06-2025] Merced County, CA – Man Killed, Two Injured in Big Rig and Chevy Crash on Highway 99 Near Buhach Road

A man was killed, and two others were injured following a crash involving a big rig and a Chevy Silverado on northbound Highway 99 just south of Buhach Road in Merced County on Tuesday night, May 6, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred shortly after 10:00 p.m. when the northbound Chevy Silverado stopped in the right lane for unknown reasons. A big rig approaching from behind attempted to swerve but struck the right side of the Chevy.

Authorities said the driver of the Chevy, a man from Riverside, died at the scene. A passenger from Coarsegold suffered major injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in Modesto, while the big rig driver from Visalia sustained minor injuries and was transported to Merced Medical Center.

The crash remains under investigation.

Call Our Trusted Merced County Truck Accident Lawyers

Truck accidents can cause life-altering injuries, overwhelming medical expenses, and significant loss of income. If you have been injured in a collision involving a commercial truck, our dedicated Merced County truck accident lawyers are here to help you seek the compensation you deserve.

At Arash Law, we manage every aspect of the legal process on your behalf. Our team will thoroughly assess your case, gather critical evidence, and negotiate directly with insurance companies and trucking companies to protect your interests. We understand the complexities involved in truck accident claims and are committed to fighting for the strongest possible outcome.

Having recovered more than $750 million for injured clients throughout California, Arash Law has earned a reputation as one of the state’s leading personal injury law firms.

Call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form today to schedule your free consultation. Let us provide the trusted legal support you need during this difficult time.

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’re in a car, move to the side of the road and stay away from oncoming traffic to avoid further danger.
2. Assess For Injuries — Put your safety first before helping others. After evaluating your condition, check how your passengers or the other involved parties are doing. If someone needs emergency medical assistance, dial 911.
3. Collect Evidence — Take pictures and record videos of the scene if you can. Get the truck driver’s license, registration, employer, and insurance information, and note any witnesses’ contact information.
4. Get Checked Medically — Even if you feel fine after the accident, have the paramedics examine you on-site or go to the emergency room. A medical record can be useful if you decide to pursue a claim later on.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company — Report the accident to your insurance provider with clear details about the incident. Avoid giving a recorded statement before consulting your lawyer. It’s essential to notify your insurer, even if the other party’s insurance is expected to cover the damages, as they can help with the claims process and provide support.
6. Consult A Truck Accident Attorney — During this trying time, our Merced County truck accident lawyers may be your greatest ally. Our attorneys can defend your legal rights and assist you in obtaining just compensation.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Truck Accidents Statistics

The National Safety Council (NSC) reported that in 2022, 5,837 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes. This number reflects a 1.8% increase compared to the previous reporting year and a 49% increase over the past decade. Large trucks were responsible for 6% of all motor vehicle fatalities that year. They also accounted for approximately 10% of the total vehicle miles traveled.

In addition, the NSC noted that 120,200 large trucks were involved in injury-causing accidents in 2022, representing a 2.5% rise from 2021. Since 2016, injury collisions involving trucks have increased by 18%, and the involvement rate per 100 million miles traveled has grown by 5.7%.