FedEx Tractor-Trailer Jackknifes on I-15

Feb 22,2017

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) issued a Sig Alert Friday when an overturned FedEx tractor-trailer blocked northbound I-15 in the Cajon Pass. The truck jackknifed on the highway around 1 p.m., blocking three lanes south of Oak Hill Road. Authorities issued the Sig Alert at 1:19 p.m.

According to the FedEx driver, Drew Hunley of Rialto, a strong gust of wind hit his empty trailer and knocked it onto its side. Several motorists pulled over to help the driver out of his truck. Thankfully, no one appears to have been hurt.

Wind Advisory in Effect when FedEx Tractor-Trailer Overturned

Traffic on northbound I-15 was backed up for miles following the accident. The San Bernardino CHP is investigating the tractor-trailer incident. The area was under a high wind advisory when the incident occurred.

Here are 7 tips for driving safely during high winds:

Keep both hands on the wheel at all times. You will react more swiftly to sudden gusts with both hands engaged.
Slow down. Your vehicle is more difficult to control in windy weather. Keeping your speed low will help you maintain control.
Don’t pull over. Your vehicle might actually be more susceptible to blowing over if it is stopped, especially if it is a small passenger vehicle.
Try to avoid large trucks and buses. As seen in the FexEx tractor-trailer incident, large trucks are much more difficult to control in heavy wind conditions. It’s best to steer clear of these vehicles when winds are high.
Keep a lookout for downed powerlines and other damage caused by wind. This might include flying debris and downed tree branches.
Don’t drive through any flooded areas. High winds often occur during rainstorms, meaning flooding could also be an issue.
Stay alert. Even if the wind seems to die down, continue to keep these tips in mind. Winds might build back up while you are on the road and you don’t want to be caught off guard.

“Intense winds make for difficult driving, especially for smaller vehicles. Stay alert when driving during a high wind warning,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in a truck accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.