Westley, CA – February 10, 2026 | Ayuda California News
A driver lost his life following a multi-vehicle crash on I-5 involving six vehicles, including a commercial semi-truck, Tuesday afternoon in Stanislaus County, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
What Happened
The crash was reported shortly before 4:15 p.m. in the southbound lanes of Interstate 5, north of Ingram Creek Road in Westley.
According to the preliminary report:
- A pickup truck traveling in the slow lane sideswiped an SUV that was stopped on the right shoulder.
- The SUV was pushed into another vehicle.
- The pickup continued forward and struck two additional sedans.
- Finally, it crashed into the rear of a stopped Freightliner semi-truck.
The pickup driver was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported.
The CHP stated that the driver was not wearing a seatbelt. It remains unclear whether alcohol or drugs were factors in the crash.
Legal Perspective: Liability in Multi-Vehicle Crashes
Accidents involving multiple vehicles—especially when commercial trucks are involved—are often legally complex.
Under California law, the following may be analyzed:
General Negligence – Civil Code § 1714
Every person is responsible for damages caused by their failure to exercise reasonable care.
Duty to Maintain Control and Safe Distance
If it is determined that more than one driver contributed to the accident, liability may be assigned proportionally under California’s pure comparative negligence system established in Li v. Yellow Cab Co. (1975).
When a Commercial Truck Is Involved
If the semi-truck had any causal role in the crash, additional factors may be examined, including:
- Vehicle maintenance
- Driver hours of service
- Compliance with federal transportation regulations (FMCSA)
In this preliminary stage, no additional injuries have been reported, but the investigation will determine whether other contributing factors were involved.
Victims’ and Families’ Rights in a Multi-Vehicle Crash in California
Although the deceased driver appears to have been primarily responsible, California law requires a full investigation before final determinations of liability are made.
In multi-vehicle accidents like this, several legal scenarios may arise:
If Other People Were Injured
Any injured driver or passenger has the right to file a personal injury claim under general negligence principles (Civil Code § 1714).
Recoverable damages may include:
✔️ Current and future medical expenses
✔️ Lost income
✔️ Vehicle damage
✔️ Pain and suffering
If Someone Dies in the Accident
Immediate family members may file a wrongful death claim under Code of Civil Procedure §§ 377.60–377.61.
Compensation may include:
✔️ Funeral expenses
✔️ Loss of financial support
✔️ Loss of companionship and emotional support
When a Commercial Truck Is Involved
If the investigation shows that a commercial truck contributed to the crash, additional liability may arise due to:
- Improper maintenance
- Driver fatigue
- Violations of federal transportation regulations
In such cases, liability may extend to the trucking company.
Ayuda California Is Here to Guide You
After a serious accident, families often face medical, financial, and legal questions all at once.
At Ayuda California, we offer:
✔️ Free and confidential consultation
✔️ Clear liability evaluation
✔️ Direct communication with insurance companies
✔️ Service in Spanish
✔️ Support regardless of immigration status
📞 Call us today to speak with a team that understands your situation.
Your family deserves clear answers and honest guidance.
