Lindsay, CA – December 8, 2025 | Ayuda California News
One person was killed, and two others were injured after a violent crash between a sedan and a semi-truck carrying corrosive material Monday night near Lindsay, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
How the Crash Happened
The collision was reported around 8:30 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 137 and Road 196.
According to CHP:
- The semi-truck was traveling eastbound on Hwy 137.
- A white sedan was traveling southbound on Road 196.
- For reasons still unknown, both vehicles entered the intersection simultaneously.
- The impact caused the truck to crash into a tree and overturn, spilling the corrosive material it was transporting.
When officers arrived, they found the semi-truck overturned with a tree on top of it.
Victims:
- One occupant of the sedan died at the scene.
- The semi-truck driver was transported to the hospital with major injuries.
- A minor in the sedan was also taken to the hospital.
Caltrans closed the roadway between Hwy 99 and Hwy 65 due to the hazardous materials spill.
The closure could last several hours as HAZMAT teams clean the area.
Collisions Involving Commercial Trucks and Hazardous Materials: Higher Risks in the Central Valley
In agricultural counties like Tulare, rural roadways are shared by families, farmworkers, and heavy transport vehicles, raising both the likelihood and severity of crashes involving:
- Passenger vehicles
- Tractor-trailers
- Trucks carrying chemicals or pesticides
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, serious crashes at rural intersections are more common in areas where commercial trucks and agricultural machinery frequently travel.
Legal Rights for Victims and Families
Even while the investigation continues, those affected by this type of crash have essential rights under California law.
Wrongful Death Claim (CPC §377.60 – 377.61)
The family of the deceased victim may seek compensation for:
- Funeral expenses
- Economic damages (lost income and financial support)
- Emotional damages and loss of companionship
Personal Injury Claims for Survivors
Both the semi-truck driver and the minor in the sedan may seek compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Therapy and rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological trauma
- Temporary or permanent disability
Commercial Liability and Federal Regulations
If the semi-truck violated safety regulations, additional liability may apply, including:
- FMCSA safety rules (hours of service, driver fatigue)
- Poor maintenance
- Failure to secure hazardous materials properly
- Inadequate driver training
Punitive Damages (CC §3294)
May apply if there is evidence of reckless behavior, extreme negligence, or serious violations of commercial transport regulations.
Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Damages
The corrosive spill may also justify claims for:
- Toxic exposure damages
- Specialized medical treatment
- Risk evaluations for minors
Ayuda California: Legal Support for Victims of Truck and Hazardous Material Crashes
Accidents involving commercial trucks or hazardous materials often require complex investigations, and insurance companies frequently act quickly to limit their liability. Families need immediate and experienced legal representation.
At Ayuda California, we can help with:
✔️ Independent crash investigation
✔️ Obtaining reports and accident reconstruction
✔️ Claims against trucking companies and insurers
✔️ Wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases
✔️ Spanish-language support regardless of immigration status
📞 Call us today for a free, confidential consultation.
Your family doesn’t have to face this process alone.
