Los Angeles, California – Authorities have identified the 21-year-old woman killed early Wednesday when a Toyota Prius crashed into the back of a big rig on the Foothill (210) Freeway in Sunland, leaving the car pinned beneath the trailer.
The collision was reported at 2:13 a.m. on the westbound 210, just east of Sunland Boulevard, according to the California Highway Patrol. CHP Officer Sergio Garcia confirmed that one person was found dead inside the gray Prius.
The Los Angeles County Office of Medical Examiner later identified the victim as Elyssa Fresquez, 21.
Investigators said the Prius rear-ended a fully loaded produce trailer, which reportedly carried more than 3 million pounds of cargo. Absorbent was required on the right shoulder to address oil that leaked during the impact.
Traffic was held at Lowell Avenue before a Sigalert was issued at 3:16 a.m., shutting down lanes 3 and 4 for the investigation and cleanup. Lane 3 reopened at 4:27 a.m., and all lanes were cleared by approximately 6:45 a.m.
How to Pursue Compensation After a Fatal Semi-Truck Crash in California
A fatal collision involving a semi-truck or big rig can leave families facing overwhelming emotional and financial consequences. In California, surviving relatives may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover compensation for the losses caused by the crash. Because these cases often involve trucking companies, insurance carriers, cargo handlers, and commercial vehicle regulations, working with an experienced big rig accident attorney is essential to protect your rights from the start.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
California law allows certain surviving family members — such as spouses, domestic partners, children, or dependents — to file. Through a claim handled by a knowledgeable wrongful death attorney California, families may pursue funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and other economic and non-economic damages.
How Compensation Works in Fatal Truck Crashes
Fatal semi-truck accidents often involve violations of federal trucking regulations, maintenance failures, or driver negligence. A skilled truck accident attorney in California can investigate factors such as speeding, fatigue, hours-of-service violations, distracted driving, improper loading, or mechanical defects. Attorneys also work with reconstruction experts and negotiate aggressively with trucking insurers, who typically attempt to minimize payouts.
Why Legal Representation Is Critical
Trucking companies often deploy their legal teams immediately after a fatal crash. Your attorney should move just as fast to preserve evidence and prevent the trucking company from controlling the investigation. A seasoned los angeles car accident attorney can guide your family through every step — from filing the claim to litigation if necessary.
Call Megeredchian Law for Immediate Help
If your loved one was killed in a semi-truck or big rig crash, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Megeredchian Law has the experience, resources, and proven results needed to stand up to large trucking and insurance companies. Call (866) 359-0807 today for a free consultation and let our team fight for the justice your family deserves.