[08-18-2020] Sonoma County, CA – One Man Killed After a Fatal Truck Accident in Petaluma

An unidentified driver from Sonoma was killed after the SUV he was driving collided with a gas tanker truck at an intersection in Petaluma on Tuesday morning, August 18.

According to the initial reports from the California Highway Patrol, the fatal collision transpired at around 6:20 a.m. A Ford Explorer truck driven by the unidentified Sonoma man stopped at a T-intersection on Pepper Road when it turned left onto the eastbound Bodega Avenue, where it collided head-on with a fuel tanker.

Due to the severity of the impact, the Ford veered off the roadway and into a dirt embankment, where it eventually rolled over. The Ford driver was pronounced dead at the scene. It is unclear whether the driver of the gas tank was injured. The truck sustained significant front-end damage and was immediately towed away as it contains more than 3,500 gallons of gas.

Truck Accident Investigation is Underway

Local authorities are currently investigating the case. Tractor-trailer accidents are more deadly compared to other types of road accidents. It’s mainly because of the considerable size difference of big rig trucks compared to other vehicles on the road. A fully loaded big rig needs as much as 20 to 40 percent more stopping distance.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), big rig trucks have increased by 30 percent since 2009. There were 4,102 traffic fatalities involving a big rig in 2017 alone. Tractor-trailer accidents are caused by a variety of factors like loss of control of the truck, a tire blowout, a disabling or non-disabling vehicle failure, excessive speed, lane drifting, improper truck maneuvering, and driver fatigue.

When facing tractor-trailer crash cases like this, it’s essential to have an experienced Sonoma County wrongful death lawyer specializing in fatal tractor-trailer accidents to conduct an independent investigation. During the independent investigation, all possible contributing factors such as road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting will be considered and thoroughly examined by the wrongful death attorney.

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Wrongful Death Attorney for Victims of Fatal Truck Accidents in Sonoma County

It can be quite devastating and stressful to suddenly lose a loved one due to a fatal truck accident. While waiting for the results of the official investigation, the victim’s family is encouraged to pursue a wrongful death claim with the help of their attorney. Through the wrongful death claim, the family can seek financial compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, pain, and suffering.

Attorneys can serve as a helpful legal guide for the grieving family during this difficult time. They will vigorously fight for their client’s rights and best interests while ensuring that the liable party will be held accountable.

If you have a nagging suspicion that someone is to blame for your spouse or family member’s death, contact Arash Law. We have the resources you need to pursue justice for wrongful death and the experience to ensure fair compensation. We’re conveniently located throughout California, with offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego, and are happy to visit you. Call (888) 488-1391 for a FREE Consultation with a wrongful death attorney in California.