Ontario, CA – October 21, 2025 | Ayuda California News
A devastating multi-vehicle crash on I-10 crash involving several tractor-trailers and passenger vehicles left at least three people dead and two others seriously injured on Tuesday afternoon on the I-10 Freeway near the Interstate 15 interchange in Ontario.
Chaos on the Freeway
The crash occurred shortly after 1:00 p.m., when, according to witnesses, a red semi-truck barreled into stopped traffic without braking.
“The truck just didn’t stop. It was going full speed and slammed into another truck, crushing two cars,” said eyewitness Jason Calmelat.
The impact triggered a massive explosion and fire, leaving several vehicles completely burned.
Aerial footage showed at least four big rigs and four passenger cars tangled in the wreckage. One vehicle was so mangled that authorities could not immediately identify its model or license plate.
Two people were transported with severe injuries to nearby hospitals, while firefighters and California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers worked for hours to extinguish the flames and clear the scene.
All westbound lanes of the I-10 remained closed for several hours, causing significant traffic backups across the Inland Empire.
Ongoing Investigation
The CHP San Bernardino Division confirmed it is investigating whether the semi-truck driver was distracted, fatigued, or speeding — all common factors in heavy-truck collisions.
Officials have not yet determined whether mechanical failure or driver negligence caused the crash. Investigators will also examine the truck’s electronic logging device (ELD) to review the driver’s service hours, as required under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.
Legal Rights for Victims and Families
In crashes of this magnitude, victims and their families have the right to seek compensation under California’s civil liability and commercial transportation laws.
Under the Code of Civil Procedure §§377.60–377.61, surviving relatives may file a wrongful death claim, which can include:
- Funeral and emergency medical expenses
- Loss of future income and financial support
- Emotional suffering from the loss of companionship and care
Additionally, under Civil Code §3294, families may pursue punitive damages if evidence shows that the driver or trucking company acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard, such as:
- Driving at excessive speeds in heavy traffic
- Ignoring rest and safety protocols
- Failing to properly maintain brakes or cargo systems
In some cases, the trucking company may also be held vicariously liable under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior if it failed to comply with federal safety standards.
Trucking Company Responsibilities
Commercial carriers are legally obligated under FMCSA regulations and California Vehicle Code §34501 to:
- Conduct regular inspections of brakes, tires, and safety systems
- Monitor and enforce driver Hours of Service limits
- Provide defensive driving and safety training
Failure to comply with these regulations can serve as key evidence in a negligence or wrongful death lawsuit.
Ayuda California: Legal and Human Support for Affected Families
At Ayuda California, we deeply mourn the loss of life in this tragic collision and extend our support to the affected families throughout the Inland Empire.
Our legal team offers free, Spanish-language consultations for families of victims involved in commercial trucking or freight transportation accidents.
Immigration status does not affect your right to justice. Call us today for personalized legal guidance and compassionate assistance.
We can help with:
✅ Wrongful death and catastrophic injury claims
✅ Corporate liability investigations in truck accidents
✅ Driver or company negligence claims
✅ Insurance negotiations and full legal representation
🔹 Ayuda California: Your voice. Your justice. Your family first.
