Fresno County, CA – On the afternoon of Tuesday, March 19, 2024, a head-on collision involving a big rig resulted in fatal injuries for 13-year-old Blain Chandler, while the truck driver escaped without harm, according to The Fresno Bee.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the crash occurred just after 12:30 PM on Manning Avenue, west of Highway 33 in San Joaquin. Chandler was driving a 2024 Honda Accord westbound at an unknown speed while a 24-year-old woman was driving a 1995 Kenworth truck tractor with dual livestock trailers eastbound.
For reasons still under investigation, Chandler made an unsafe left turn, causing the Honda to partially cross the centerline into the path of the oncoming Kenworth. The truck driver was unable to avoid the collision, and the two vehicles crashed head-on. The impact caused both vehicles to become fully engulfed in flames.
Authorities say Chandler was pinned inside the Honda and pronounced dead at the scene. The truck driver managed to escape unharmed before the fire spread. Emergency crews responded quickly, but the fire and wreckage made rescue efforts difficult.
Officials have not determined why Chandler was driving or what led to the crash. It is currently unknown if alcohol or drugs were factors. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are working to reconstruct the events leading to the fatal accident. Anyone with information is urged to contact law enforcement.
Comparative Liability
Determining fault in a collision can involve multiple factors, and under California’s Comparative Liability rule, several parties can share partial responsibility. Should evidence reveal that another party contributed to the injuries, victims may be eligible to file a personal injury claim with the responsible party’s insurance.
Fresno Big Rig Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Fresno Big Rig Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
