Five people were rushed to the hospital following a collision between an Amtrak train and a semi-truck in Ventura County on December 12th.
The crash occurred in Somis, an area of Ventura County, at around 6:20 PM on State Route 118 at Sand Canyon Road. A crash scene video obtained by KTLA depicted a large response by Ventura County Firefighters who assisted passengers safely off the train and treat those injured.
The five passengers taken to nearby hospitals were treated for minor to moderate injuries, according to officials.
Officials say the big rig got stuck on the tracks due to the incline. The driver was able to safely get out of the truck before it was struck by Amtrak’s Pacific Surfline. The Amtrak was headed south to Los Angeles with 95 passengers and five crew members.
According to the California Highway Patrol, State Route 118 between Balcom Canyon Road and State Route 34 was expected to be completely closed through early morning hours. Crews will need to remove the semi-truck and make roadways repairs.
The suspension of the Pacific Surfliner service between Moorpark and Camarillo was announced by Amtrak through Wednesday morning.
“This crash is a true reminder of how crucial it is to practice safe trucking procedures while out on the roads as this could have been even more harsh of an incident,” said Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber. “Five people were injured due to this crash involving large transportation vehicles, this unfortunately could have easily been casualties due to its severity. Big rigs need to ensure they can access the roads they are traveling on prior to traveling.”
Anyone impacted by a Ventura County big rig crash should contact the truck accident attorneys at Singleton Schreiber by calling 213-816-0307 or by email at info@singletonschreiber.com.
Ventura County Big Rig Accidents
Ventura County is a vibrant region with a bustling economy fueled by agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics. The county’s network of highways and roadways serves as a vital artery for the transportation of goods, and the presence of big rigs is a common sight on these routes. However, with the increased traffic and economic activity comes the unfortunate reality of big rig accidents, incidents that pose significant challenges to both public safety and the local economy.
Big rig accidents in Ventura County are not isolated incidents; they are a complex issue influenced by various factors, including driver fatigue, mechanical failures, adverse weather conditions, and the sheer volume of traffic. The extensive road network, which includes major highways like the 101 and 118, sees a high frequency of big rig accidents, ranging from minor collisions to more severe incidents that can lead to injuries and fatalities.
Big rig accidents have far-reaching consequences, impacting not only those directly involved but also the general public. Due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles, accidents involving big rigs often result in more severe injuries and property damage compared to regular car collisions. Moreover, the potential for hazardous material spills during such incidents can pose a serious threat to public health and the environment.
Ventura County’s law enforcement agencies, emergency responders, and transportation authorities work collaboratively to respond to big rig accidents promptly. Investigations into these accidents are thorough, often involving specialized teams to determine the root causes and contributing factors. The goal is not only to assign responsibility but also to identify patterns and implement measures to prevent future incidents.
Big rig accidents can lead to complex legal proceedings, involving multiple parties such as the truck driver, trucking company, and insurance providers. Determining liability can be challenging, especially when issues such as driver fatigue, maintenance negligence, or external factors like inclement weather are involved. Victims of big rig accidents, whether individuals in smaller vehicles or pedestrians, often seek legal recourse to obtain compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and other losses.
In light of the challenges posed by big rig accidents, various preventive measures are being implemented in Ventura County. These include increased law enforcement patrols, educational programs for both truck drivers and the general public, and investments in infrastructure improvements designed to enhance road safety.
As Ventura County continues to grow and thrive, the management of big rig accidents remains a critical concern. Through a combination of enhanced safety measures, comprehensive investigations, and a commitment to legal accountability, the county aims to mitigate the impact of these accidents on public safety and maintain the smooth flow of commerce that characterizes the region. As stakeholders collaborate to address the challenges posed by big rig accidents, the hope is to create a safer and more secure environment for all who travel the roadways of Ventura County.
“It’s unfortunate that so many people are affected by this collision. Five people were injured and are in the hospital at no fault of their own, roadways are closed to remove the big rig, and commuters are now facing the repercussions as well,” added Mr. Singleton. “My hope is that anyone affected reaches out to a knowledgeable attorney that can help in the matter.”
Anyone impacted by a Ventura County big rig crash should contact the truck accident attorneys at Singleton Schreiber by calling 213-816-0307 or by email at info@singletonschreiber.com.
