San Bernardino, CA – Fatal Injury Collision on I-15 Fwy Near Hodge Rd

15Jul

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San Bernardino, CA (July 15, 2925) – A deadly crash on Monday, July 14, claimed the life of a 56-year-old Corona man on the southbound I-15 Freeway near Hodge Rd in San Bernardino County. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that the victim was driving a 2023 Honda Civic when, for unknown reasons, he stopped in the #3 lane just after 9 p.m.

A 47-year-old driver from Washington, Pennsylvania, operating a 2023 Volvo semi-truck with a 53-foot trailer, did not notice the stalled car. The semi-truck struck the Honda from behind with great force, crushing the rear of the car and pushing both vehicles into the freeway’s center median.

Footage captured at the scene shows the severity of the impact. Unconfirmed reports say a Good Samaritan was at the scene, shining a spotlight on the disabled vehicle to warn others, but the truck driver was unable to stop in time. The CHP has not confirmed additional injuries.

Emergency responders from CHP, San Bernardino County Fire, and Desert Ambulance arrived quickly. They attempted CPR on the Honda driver, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The semi-truck driver was unharmed and cooperated fully with investigators.

CHP officials stated it is unclear if alcohol or drugs contributed to the crash. Capt. Erich Meeker of the CHP Barstow Area offered condolences and urged drivers to pull over safely and use hazard lights if they must stop on a freeway.

The investigation remains open. Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer D. Alvarez at 760-255-5900.

We extend our sincere wishes for recovery to those injured in this incident.

Truck and Rear-End Collisions in San Bernardino County

Truck accidents, especially involving large commercial vehicles, are a serious concern on California highways like the I-15 Freeway. Rear-end collisions with semi-trucks often cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities due to the size and weight of these vehicles. According to California Highway Patrol statistics, large truck crashes make up a significant portion of fatal freeway accidents statewide.

Many rear-end crashes happen when a vehicle suddenly stops or stalls in a lane, and a following driver fails to react in time. Factors such as driver distraction, fatigue, poor visibility, or speeding often contribute to these collisions. Truck drivers face challenges like long hours and heavy loads, but they must remain vigilant to avoid tragic outcomes.

Victims of truck accidents may suffer severe injuries including spinal damage, traumatic brain injury, broken bones, or worse. Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma can create a heavy burden on injured parties and their families. In cases where negligence plays a role—such as failure to maintain a safe following distance or inadequate vehicle maintenance—injured victims may be entitled to compensation.

Car accident lawyers who specialize in truck accidents understand the complexities of these claims. They work to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build strong cases to pursue damages for medical costs, pain and suffering, lost income, and more. Since trucking companies and their insurers have large legal teams, having an experienced attorney can level the playing field.

In San Bernardino County and throughout California, it is crucial for drivers to follow safety tips such as keeping a safe distance, staying alert, and pulling off the road safely if a vehicle stalls. For commercial truck drivers, adherence to hours-of-service regulations and regular vehicle inspections help reduce the risk of accidents.

If you or a loved one was hurt in a truck or rear-end accident anywhere in California, don’t wait to get legal help. Call our skilled attorneys at Khorshidi Law Firm today at (310) 273-2211 to schedule a free consultation and get the support you need.