San Luis Obispo County, CA – A 29-year-old man from Bakersfield, Luis Hernandez-Lopez, was injured when the truck he was driving overturned on the morning of Monday, February 17, 2025, according to KEYT.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the crash occurred around 8:35 AM on Chimney Rock Road, east of Cypress Mountain Road.
Investigations indicate that Hernandez-Lopez was driving a Peterbilt truck hauling powdered limestone when he failed to slow down for a curve. CHP reports that the truck lost traction, slid off the southern edge of the road, and overturned, spilling both diesel fuel and its cargo onto the embankment.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene, and Hernandez-Lopez was treated for injuries. Authorities closed Chimney Rock Road for about four hours while crews worked to clean up the hazardous materials and recover the vehicle.
CHP stated that alcohol and drugs were not factors in the crash, though their investigation remains ongoing.
Single-Vehicle Collisions & Comparative Negligence
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages.
