Driver Killed in Big Rig Collision on I-5 Near Sutterville Road in Sacramento – September 13, 2025
Accident Overview:
A tragic crash occurred early Saturday morning, September 13, 2025, on northbound Interstate 5 just north of Sutterville Road in Sacramento. A pick-up truck traveling in the #3 lane became disabled after losing a tire. A big rig towing two trailers, also traveling in the same lane, collided with the stationary truck. Both vehicles caught fire on impact. The driver of the pick-up truck was declared dead at the scene. The big rig driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to the hospital. CHP Sacramento is actively investigating, and drugs or alcohol are not suspected as contributing factors.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Accident Type | Fatal Truck vs Pickup Crash |
| Location | I-5 Northbound, north of Sutterville Road, Sacramento, CA |
| Date | September 13, 2025 |
| Parties Involved | Pick-up driver (deceased), Big rig driver (injured) |
| Injuries | 1 minor injury |
| Fatalities | 1 confirmed fatality |
| Law Enforcement | CHP Sacramento Area |
| Legal Note | The victim’s family may have grounds for a wrongful death claim |
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🚨 What Happened
A northbound pick-up truck on I-5 lost a tire and became disabled. Moments later, a big rig towing two trailers crashed into it. Both vehicles caught fire. The pick-up driver was pronounced dead at the scene, while the truck driver sustained minor injuries.
🧑⚕️ Medical Response
- Emergency crews pronounced the pick-up driver deceased on scene.
- The big rig driver was treated for minor injuries and transported to a hospital.
🚔 Investigation Underway
CHP Sacramento is actively investigating the crash. Visit CHP Sacramento
📊 Statistics
🚛 California sees over 300 fatal crashes per year involving large trucks, with I-5 being one of the most dangerous corridors.🕗 Early morning crashes (between 6–9 a.m.) account for over 20% of fatal collisions on state highways.
🚓 Sacramento County had 98 fatal accidents in the most recent year of reporting — a figure that continues to rise, particularly on major routes like I-5.
🛠️ Mechanical failure, like tire blowouts, contributes to 1 in every 11 fatal crashes involving pickups and commercial trucks.
Sources: CHP SWITRS, Caltrans, FMCSA, NHTSA
⚖️ Legal Options
Wrongful Death Claims
The family of the deceased pick-up truck driver may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These claims can help cover funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.
🚛 Trucking Company Liability
If the big rig driver failed to react safely or was operating with unsafe equipment, the trucking company may also be liable under commercial carrier responsibility laws.
🧾 Third-Party Mechanical Claims
If a defective tire caused the pick-up truck to become disabled, the manufacturer or installer could be held accountable through a third-party product liability claim.
💼 Past Case Results
⚖️ $5.2 million settlement in a wrongful death case involving a stalled vehicle struck by a semi on a California highway.⚖️ $3.8 million verdict for the family of a driver killed when a commercial rig failed to brake in time and rear-ended a disabled vehicle.
⚖️ $6.1 million awarded in a case where poor maintenance on a commercial vehicle led to a deadly freeway collision.
👨⚖️ Fighting For You
When tragedy strikes, your family deserves more than sympathy — you deserve justice. At the Scranton Law Firm, we have decades of experience holding trucking companies and insurers accountable. We know the law, we know the pressure they apply, and we know how to fight back. If your loved one has been lost in a crash like this, we’re here to stand with you.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wrongful death claim in California?
It’s a legal action brought by surviving family members when someone dies due to another party’s negligence or misconduct.
Who can file a wrongful death claim in this case?
Typically, the victim’s spouse, children, or other close dependents may file the claim.
Is the trucking company always liable in big rig crashes?
Not always — but if their driver was negligent or their vehicle was poorly maintained, they can be held accountable.
How soon should the family speak to a lawyer?
Immediately. Evidence can disappear quickly in truck cases, and legal deadlines apply. A lawyer can protect your rights from day one.
What damages can be recovered?
Funeral costs, loss of income, emotional pain, and other economic and non-economic losses.
