Truck Collision Causes Fire and Full Closure of the 101 Freeway in Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES, CA – January 13, 2026 | Ayuda California News
A truck collision involving a commercial truck (big rig) caused a fire and a full shutdown of the 101 Freeway early Tuesday morning in Los Angeles, leaving multiple people injured, triggering a fuel spill, and causing severe traffic disruptions, according to state authorities.
What Happened
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash was reported around 5:15 a.m. in the northbound lanes of the 101 Freeway near the Vermont Avenue exit.
Preliminary reports indicate:
- Three vehicles were involved, including a commercial truck.
- The big rig jackknifed following the impact.
- A fuel spill occurred, forcing authorities to completely shut down the freeway.
- A compact vehicle caught fire, as shown in aerial footage released by local media.
A 35-year-old man was transported to a hospital with minor injuries. Another individual was injured but declined medical transport, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD).
Road Closures and Traffic Impact
The crash forced a full closure of the 101 Freeway for several hours. By 9:30 a.m., only a limited number of lanes had reopened, while a SigAlert remained in effect.
Traffic backups stretched more than five miles, impacting downtown Los Angeles and forcing detours through Alvarado Street, Beverly Boulevard, and Normandie Avenue. Authorities warned of delays of up to one hour.
Investigation Ongoing
CHP continues to investigate the cause of the crash, including:
- The commercial truck’s maneuvers
- Rush-hour traffic conditions
- Possible mechanical failures
- Compliance with safety regulations by the driver and the trucking company
No arrests or charges have been announced at this time, and the investigation remains active.
Legal Rights After Multi-Vehicle Truck Crashes
Multi-vehicle freeway crashes are legally complex, often involving multiple drivers, trucking companies, and insurance carriers. Liability is typically determined only after a technical CHP investigation.
Shared Liability in California
California follows the pure comparative negligence system established in Li v. Yellow Cab Co. (1975). This means:
- More than one driver may be legally responsible
- Each party is liable only for their percentage of fault
- Victims may still recover compensation even if they share partial responsibility
What Injured Victims May Recover
In multi-vehicle accidents, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) analyzes the individual conduct of each driver to determine how a chain-reaction collision began. The following are some of the most relevant California traffic laws that are commonly evaluated:
Unsafe Speed
California Vehicle Code § 22350 makes clear that simply obeying the posted speed limit is not enough. A driver may still be considered negligent if they are driving too fast for the current road conditions, such as:
- Stopped or slow-moving traffic
- Fog, rain, or reduced visibility
- Curves, steep grades, or construction zones
Example: A vehicle traveling at the “legal” speed limit that fails to stop in time and triggers a chain-reaction crash may be found liable under this statute.
Following Too Closely
California Vehicle Code § 21703 requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance so they can stop safely if traffic ahead slows or stops.
Example: In heavy traffic, a driver who tailgates and causes a rear-end collision may be considered the initial cause of a multi-vehicle crash.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Drivers are prohibited from changing lanes unless it can be done safely and with proper signaling according to California Vehicle Code § 22107.
Example: A sudden or aggressive lane change to “gain space” on the freeway may force other drivers to brake abruptly, triggering a chain-reaction collision.
Distracted Driving — CVC § 23123.5
California Vehicle Code § § 23123.5 prohibits the use of handheld cell phones and other electronic devices while driving.
Example: A distracted driver who fails to notice stopped traffic and does not react in time may cause multiple impacts, even without speeding.
When Commercial Trucks Are Involved
Crashes involving commercial trucks (big rigs) are often more severe due to their size and weight. In these cases, liability may extend beyond the driver.
A trucking company may be held responsible if evidence shows:
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Defective brakes, worn tires, or inoperable safety systems can prevent a truck from stopping in time.
Excessive Driving Hours
State and federal regulations strictly limit how long a commercial driver may operate without rest.
📌 Example: A fatigued truck driver who loses reaction time and causes a collision may expose the trucking company to direct liability.
Under California law, injured victims may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
- Compensation, even when fault is shared
Ayuda California Is Here for You
In multi-vehicle crashes, legal confusion is common. At Ayuda California, we help families understand their rights, deal with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation — in Spanish and regardless of immigration status.
📞 Free, confidential consultation available.
Your safety and your rights matter.
