[02-11-2026] Stanislaus County – Pickup Truck Driver Dies After Six-Vehicle Collision on I-5

Westley, California – A multi-vehicle collision involving six vehicles, among them a semi-truck, resulted in the death of a pickup truck driver Tuesday afternoon on southbound Interstate 5 in Stanislaus County, according to the California Highway Patrol. 

Authorities arrived at the scene shortly before 4:15 p.m. on the southbound side of I-5, just north of Ingram Creek Road near Westley. 

Investigators say the pickup was traveling in the slow lane when it struck the side of an SUV that was stopped on the right shoulder. The impact forced that SUV into another nearby SUV. The pickup continued forward and clipped two more vehicles — both sedans — before ultimately crashing into the rear of a stopped Freightliner truck. 

Emergency responders pronounced the pickup driver dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported. 

CHP stated that the pickup driver was not wearing a seat belt. It remains under investigation whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the incident. 

Several southbound lanes were temporarily closed while crews handled the scene and cleared debris. All lanes were reopened shortly before 7:45 p.m. 

Source: KCRA 

Who Pays Damages After a Multi-Vehicle Fatal Crash? 

In a multi-vehicle fatal crash, financial responsibility is determined by fault. Investigators and insurance companies analyze how the chain reaction started, which drivers acted negligently, and whether more than one party contributed to the collision. Damages may be paid by a single at-fault driver, shared among multiple drivers under comparative negligence rules, or partially covered by commercial policies if a truck or business vehicle was involved. Compensation in fatal cases is typically pursued through a wrongful death claim filed by surviving family members. 

Because liability in pileups is often disputed — with conflicting statements, overlapping impacts, and multiple insurers involved — families should speak with a qualified car accident lawyer near Sacramento as soon as possible. A skilled personal injury lawyer in the Sacramento area can gather crash reports, vehicle data, and expert analysis to determine who must pay. When a life is lost, a wrongful death lawyer near Sacramento can help surviving relatives pursue damages for funeral costs, lost income, and loss of companionship. 

Call J&Y Law at (877) 718-5027 for a free consultation if your family is facing a fatal multi-vehicle crash case.