Ontario, California – Three people lost their lives Tuesday afternoon in a fiery chain-reaction crash involving up to eight vehicles — including four semi-trucks — on the westbound 10 Freeway in Ontario.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred just east of the 15 Freeway around 1:15 p.m., forcing officials to close multiple lanes and bringing traffic to a halt for hours.
Dashcam footage obtained exclusively by ABC7 captured the moment a semi-truck slammed into an SUV, triggering a violent pileup in the same lane. The truck then veered to the right and appeared to strike another semi before coming to a stop on the shoulder. The video is now part of an active law enforcement investigation.
Authorities confirmed that three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while four others suffered injuries. The 21-year-old truck driver from Yuba City was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs.
All westbound lanes of the freeway remained closed for several hours but were reopened later that night.
Source: ABC7
How to Claim Compensation After a Fatal Freeway Multi-Vehicle Accident Involving a Suspected DUI
Fatal freeway crashes involving multiple vehicles and suspected DUI drivers can leave families facing devastating emotional and financial losses. If your loved one was killed in a collision caused by a driver under the influence, you may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim with the help of experienced attorneys.
At Megeredchian Law, our team of California accident lawyers helps victims and families seek justice and recover maximum compensation after catastrophic freeway collisions. Here’s how to protect your rights and build a strong claim.
1. Report the Accident and Obtain the Official Investigation Report
Always start by filing an official report with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) or local law enforcement. This document will be essential for your claim, especially in cases involving suspected DUI. The report usually includes details about fault, test results, and witness statements that can strengthen your compensation claim.
2. Consult a Wrongful Death Attorney in California
Fatal freeway collisions often lead to wrongful death lawsuits against negligent or impaired drivers. An experienced attorney can help identify liable parties — which may include the driver, their employer, or a trucking company — and handle negotiations with insurers while you focus on your family.
3. Determine Liability in Multi-Vehicle Collisions
Freeway pileups involving several vehicles can be complex. A skilled truck accident attorney in California can analyze crash data, vehicle records, and expert reports to determine each party’s degree of fault. This process ensures all negligent drivers or companies are held accountable.
4. Gather Strong Evidence to Support Your Claim
Key evidence includes police reports, toxicology results, dashcam or surveillance footage, and eyewitness statements. A DUI accident attorney can work with investigators to collect and preserve crucial proof before it’s lost or altered.
5. File a Claim Within the Legal Deadline
In California, you generally have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, early legal action is critical, especially when multiple insurers or trucking companies are involved.
6. Recover the Compensation You Deserve
Families of DUI accident victims may recover damages for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Emotional suffering and loss of companionship
- Medical costs prior to death
An experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney can calculate the full extent of your losses and fight for the highest possible settlement or verdict.
7. Contact a Proven Car Accident Law Firm
At Megeredchian Law, we have years of experience handling fatal freeway and DUI-related crashes across California. Our firm investigates every detail, negotiates aggressively, and takes cases to court when necessary to secure justice for your family.Call Megeredchian Law at (866) 359-0807 for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.