Tractor-trailer crash on 210 Freeway involves emergency vehicles
Posted on Dec 5, 2014 12:00am PST
While many drivers treat the speed limit as a minimum instead of a maximum,
the posted speed limit is for ideal road conditions. Wet roads are slippery
roads, and drivers must slow down to compensate for the increased time
it will take to stop and prepare for the possibility of skidding in the
case of unexpected stops or quick maneuvers.This is even more true for
tractor-trailer drivers who must maintain an even longer
assured clear distance aheadand appropriate speed to ensure they are able to slow, move or stop their
trucks completely for accidents or other traffic situations. A Nov. 21
accident that happened on the 210 Freeway shows just how quickly an accident
can happen when a tractor-trailer is involved.
According to reports, the accident occurred in Rancho Cucamonga around
1 a.m. It appears that two California Highway Patrol vehicles and one
fire engine were already on the scene of an earlier accident involving
three vehicles that had occurred in the westbound lanes of the 210 Freeway
about a half-hour earlier.
The tractor-trailer reportedly crashed into the fire truck and police cruisers,
causing extensive damage to the California Highway Patrol vehicles and
injuring four firefighters. It was not clear what caused the tractor-trailer
to fail to stop for the emergency vehicles, but officers reported wet
road conditions, which may have been a factor.
When an accident involves a vehicle as large and heavy as a tractor-trailer,
it can mean extensive property damage and serious bodily injury to the
victims. Seeking information on the legal options after a motor vehicle
crash can help victims better understand their options and next steps.
Source: nbclosangeles.com, "
Big Rig Crashes Into Fire Engine, 2 CHP Cruisers 210 Freeway" Michael Larkin, Nov. 21, 2014