Shasta County, CA – February 17, 2026 | Ayuda California News
A multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 5 (I-5) involving up to 17 commercial trucks and other vehicles left one person dead Tuesday afternoon in Shasta County, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
The crash occurred around 3:05 p.m. in the southbound lanes of I-5 near Gilman Road, in the Lakehead area.
What We Know So Far
- Up to 17 vehicles, including multiple big rigs, were involved.
- Winter weather conditions may have contributed to the crash.
- Caltrans closed all southbound lanes between Salt Creek Road and Gilman Road for several hours.
- A 49-year-old man from Monterey Park, the driver of a 2025 Toyota, died as a result of the collision.
- CHP continues to investigate the cause of the crash and is asking anyone with information to contact the Redding office.
Why Multi-Vehicle Crashes on I-5 Are Especially Dangerous
Interstate 5 is one of California’s busiest commercial corridors. When chain-reaction collisions involve commercial trucks, the risk increases due to:
- The weight and longer stopping distances of tractor-trailers
- Highway speeds
- Adverse weather conditions
- Domino-effect impacts in heavy traffic
During winter, rain, snow, or slick pavement can drastically reduce drivers’ reaction time.
Legal Liability in Multi-Vehicle Crashes
In accidents involving numerous vehicles, California law allows for shared liability analysis.
Investigators typically examine factors such as:
- Unsafe speed for weather conditions (CVC § 22350)
- Following too closely (CVC § 21703)
- Unsafe maneuvers or loss of control
- Possible commercial driver fatigue
California follows a pure comparative negligence system (Li v. Yellow Cab Co., 1975), meaning more than one party may be responsible, and each is liable according to their percentage of fault.
Rights of Victims and Their Families
If a person dies in a traffic collision, immediate family members may file a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure §§ 377.60–377.61.
Compensation may include:
- Funeral expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and emotional support
If survivors suffer serious injuries, they may also seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
When commercial trucks are involved, liability may also extend to the trucking company for issues such as maintenance failures, excessive driving hours, or negligent supervision.
Ayuda California Is Here to Guide You
After a serious highway crash, families often face complex claims involving multiple insurance companies and official reports.
At Ayuda California, we offer:
✔️ Free and confidential consultation
✔️ Clear legal guidance in Spanish
✔️ Liability evaluation in multi-vehicle crashes
✔️ Assistance regardless of immigration status
📞 Contact us today for guidance.
Your right to understand what happened and protect your family matters.
