DUI-Suspected in Deadly Semi Truck Crash on I-10 Freeway: Dashcam Footage Reveals the Firey Aftermath

A tragic collision on the 10 Freeway in Ontario this week left three people dead and four others injured after a semi-truck driver – suspected of being under the influence of drugs – crashed into multiple vehicles, including three other big rigs. 

According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash happened around 1:15 p.m. Tuesday 10/21 on the westbound side of the freeway, just east of the 15 Freeway interchange. Dashcam footage obtained by ABC7 shows the semi-truck slamming into the back of an SUV, then barreling into several other vehicles before veering to the right shoulder and colliding with another truck. 

What Caused the Ontario Freeway Truck Crash?

While investigators are still determining all factors, the 21-year-old semi-truck driver from Yuba City was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs. 

When a driver operating an 80,000-pound vehicle is impaired – even for a few seconds – the results are catastrophic. 

Truck drivers are held to stricter safety and sobriety standards because of the damage their vehicles can cause. Yet, impaired or fatigued truckers remain a leading cause of deadly multi-vehicle freeway accidents. 

How Common Are Multi-Truck Freeway Collisions in California?

Unfortunately, large-truck crashes are increasing across Southern California. According to national safety data: 

• More than 4,300 people were killed in large-truck crashes last year

• 83% of those fatalities were occupants of smaller vehicles and not the truck drivers themselves. 

• Daytime hours between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. are the most common times for fatal truck collisions. 

• In California, freeways like the I-10, I-5, and I-15 are among the most dangerous corridors for truck-related accidents. 

These crashes often involve multiple semi-trucks, long braking distances, and chain-reaction impacts just like the Ontario incident. 

Why Truck Accidents Are So Devastating

When a semi-truck collides with smaller vehicles, the force of impact is magnified by size and weight differences. Even at moderate speeds, these accidents can lead to: 

• Fatal injuries or severe trauma 

• Fires or explosions from ruptured fuel tanks 

• Multi-vehicle pileups 

• Long-term freeway closures and hazardous material spills 

The Ontario crash exemplifies how one driver’s poor decision can endanger dozens of others in an instant. You can watch the dashcam footage here.

Can Victims of Truck Accidents File a Personal Injury or Wrongful Death Claim?

Yes. Victims and families affected by crashes like this may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and wrongful death damages. 

Liability can extend beyond the driver, often including: 

• The trucking company for negligent hiring or supervision 

• Maintenance providers for faulty equipment 

• Manufacturers for defective brakes or tires 

An experienced California personal injury attorney can help uncover every liable party and ensure victims receive full compensation. 

How Can Drivers Stay Safe Around Semi-Trucks? 

While not every crash is preventable, there are proven safety tips for drivers sharing the road with commercial trucks: 

1. Avoid blind spots: If you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the driver can’t see you. 
2. Maintain distance: Keep several car lengths behind or ahead of trucks. 
3. Don’t cut off a semi-truck: Their stopping distance is much greater. 
4. Report unsafe or impaired drivers by calling CHP or 911. 

Even cautious drivers can be victims of negligent trucking behavior, but awareness can save lives. 

What To Do If You’re Involved in a Truck Accident

1. Call 911 immediately and request emergency help. 
2. Document the scene with photos and witness statements. 
3. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, some injuries surface later. 
4. Do not speak with insurance adjusters until you’ve consulted an attorney. 

At J&Y Law, we’ve helped hundreds of truck-accident victims rebuild their lives after catastrophic freeway crashes. Our team understands the complexity of truck-related claims and fights to hold negligent drivers and companies accountable. 

Contact a Truck Accident Attorney in Ontario

If you or a loved one was injured in a crash involving a semi-truck or commercial vehicle, you don’t have to face it alone. Contact J&Y Law today for a free consultation. 

Because when it comes to collisions with trucks, we win. And that’s no accident.