Fowler, CA – A fatal traffic collision involving a big rig early Sunday morning, January 18, 2026, claimed the life of a pickup truck driver, according to KSEE, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reported that the accident took place just before 7:30 a.m. in the southbound lanes of Clovis Avenue near Highway 99.
According to investigators, a Chevrolet S-10 pickup and a big rig hauling tomatoes collided while the big rig was attempting a left turn or U-turn on Golden State Boulevard. The force of the impact reportedly caused the pickup truck to become lodged underneath the trailer.
The big rig continued traveling a short distance before coming to a stop in a safe location. Emergency responders observed that a fire had ignited as a result of the crash.
CHP officials, along with fire and emergency personnel, closed the affected lanes of Clovis Avenue to facilitate a thorough investigation. The roadway remained closed for several hours while responders collected evidence, documented the scene, and coordinated the safe removal of the vehicles.
The driver of the commercial vehicle remained on scene and is fully cooperating with law enforcement. Authorities do not suspect that drugs or alcohol were involved on the part of the commercial driver. Toxicology testing is being conducted for the pickup truck driver as part of standard post-collision procedures.
Visibility at the time was significantly reduced due to dense fog, which may have contributed to the incident. Investigators also noted that the intrusion of the pickup into the trailer suggested that excessive speed could have also been a factor.
Wrongful Death Claims & Comparative Negligence
Determining fault in a collision can involve multiple factors, and under California’s Comparative Negligence rule, several parties can share partial responsibility.
Should someone else be found even partly responsible for the death, the family may be able to file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide compensation to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income to support the family of the deceased.
Clovis Fatal Truck Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Clovis Fatal Truck Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
