(Sunland, CA) A man and a woman were killed in a Foothill Freeway accident Friday night, April 5, after a big rig crashed into a parked vehicle.
California Highway Patrol officers responded around 9:52 p.m. to the eastbound Foothill (210) Freeway east of Sunland Boulevard. Investigators said a Freightliner truck tractor driven by Hardev Singh of Manteca collided with a Honda Accord that was stopped on the right shoulder. The impact trapped the occupants inside the vehicle.
Emergency responders arrived and pronounced both victims dead at the scene. Authorities identified them as Wern Saetern, 25, and Alejandra Simental, 23. Officials have not released their cities of residence. The driver of the truck remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
A SigAlert closed the No. 1 and No. 2 lanes for several hours overnight before reopening early Saturday morning. Authorities have not determined what led to the crash or whether impairment was a factor. The investigation remains ongoing.
Overview On The Foothill Freeway Accident
When a fatal crash involves a vehicle stopped on a freeway shoulder, investigators review traffic laws to understand contributing factors. These reviews focus on speed, attentiveness, and safe roadway behavior without assigning fault prematurely.
Because the crash involved a parked vehicle, officers may examine the Unsafe Stopping Law. This law limits where vehicles may stop on highways, especially when it creates a hazard. Investigators will consider why the vehicle was stopped and whether it was visible to approaching traffic. Shoulder stops can increase risk, particularly at night.
If speed or reaction time is a concern, authorities may review the Basic Speed Law. This law requires drivers to operate at speeds that are safe for roadway and traffic conditions. Freeway driving at night can reduce visibility and increase stopping distance. Investigators may evaluate whether speed affected the ability to avoid the collision.
When large commercial vehicles are involved, officers may also consider the Following Distance Law. This law requires drivers to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead. Big rigs require significantly longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles. These factors may help explain what led to the Foothill Freeway accident.
What the Family Can Do
If you have lost a loved one in this crash, staying in contact with the California Highway Patrol can help you receive updates. You can request official reports when they become available to better understand the findings.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified attorney who can explain your options and next steps. In addition, support from family, friends, and grief counseling services can provide comfort during this difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
