The Worst Truck Accidents in the United States

4 of the Worst Truck Accident Cases in the History of the United States

Commercial trucking accidents tend to be catastrophic. And it’s hardly surprising why. Due to the size mismatch between a multi-ton truck and a passenger vehicle, resulting injuries tend to be disastrous. Truck accident claims involving semis are also very complex. 

Below, our experienced truck accident attorneys will discuss some of California’s worst truck accidents. If you have suffered injuries as a result of a truck accident, West Coast Trial Lawyers is always here to answer any questions you may have about accident claims and damages.To schedule a free consultation, please contact our 24/7 legal team by calling 213-927-3700 or filling out our quick contact form.

Top 4 Horrific Truck Accidents

Coalinga, California

November 29, 1991 – Interstate 5

This was perhaps one of California’s worst truck accidents ever recorded. The circumstances were unique, combining Thanksgiving traffic and a massive dust storm. 

Due to the drought in the area, a layer of soil in this mostly rural farming community was kicked up in the air by winds that were in excess of 40 miles per hour. As a result of the poor visibility and heavy traffic, 14 people were killed that day and over 100 more were hurt. 

Fresno, California

November 3, 2007 – Highway 99

This accident took place at 7:45 am on November 3, 2007 after heavy fog descended over Highway 99 in Fresno, causing a pileup that killed a 5 year old boy and a 26 year old man. 36 more people were also treated for injuries. 

One driver who was involved in the pileup was cited for driving under the influence, but this was not a factor in causing the accident.

Los Angeles, California 

November 3, 2002 – Interstate 10

The worst multi-vehicle pileup wreck took place on November 3, 2002 on Interstate 10. 216 vehicles were involved and 41 were injured. Despite the number of people involved, no deaths were reported. The crash occurred around 7 am when a semi crashed into the center concrete divider and set off a chain reaction that affected both sides of the freeway. The main cause of this pileup was dense fog, which caused poor visibility.

Galesburg, Michigan

January 9, 2015 – I-94

This particular incident didn’t occur in California, but it’s worth mentioning due to the circumstances that caused it. 193 vehicles were involved, 23 people were hurt, and one person lost their life. The accident began on the eastbound lanes and soon spread to the other side of the freeway, as well. 

It was determined that a tractor trailer that caught on fire was transporting fireworks that caused multiple explosions. Another semi in the vicinity carrying acid began to leak, which created even more hazards. 

Contact Us to Find Out How We Can Help

If you have sustained injuries as a result of a truck accident, our expert truck accident attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers will help you recover compensation for the losses you have suffered, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

Contact us today by calling 213-927-3700 or filling out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with our experienced, caring, and compassionate legal team.