(Sylmar, CA) A woman was killed early Sunday morning, January 11, in a Foothill Freeway crash involving a semi-truck and a Tesla.
The collision occurred around 5:10 a.m. on the eastbound Foothill (210) Freeway at the Polk Street off-ramp. Officers arrived to find extensive damage at the scene. They determined the woman had died before she could be transported to a hospital.
The Los Angeles County Office of Medical Examiner later identified the victim as Angie Rios, 19. Officials said she died from blunt traumatic injuries. Authorities did not immediately clarify which vehicle Rios rode in at the time of the crash.
Firefighters and paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department assisted CHP officers by extracting the victim from the wreckage. Officers closed the eastbound lanes near the off-ramp emergency crews worked to secure the scene.
Review on the Foothill Freeway Crash
When a fatal collision involving passenger and commercial vehicles occurs on a freeway, investigators review traffic safety laws to better understand what factors may have contributed, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews focus on lane usage, speed, and driver decision-making during freeway transitions.
If lane movement or merging played a role near the off-ramp, investigators may examine the Unsafe Lane Change or Movement Law. This law requires drivers to ensure a movement can be made with reasonable safety before turning or changing lanes. Freeway off-ramps can be especially hazardous when vehicles of different sizes are traveling at varying speeds.
Authorities may also review the Basic Speed Law to determine whether speed was reasonable for traffic, visibility, and roadway conditions. Early morning hours can present reduced visibility, and higher speeds may limit a driver’s ability to respond to sudden changes in traffic flow.
Because a semi-truck was involved, investigators sometimes consider commercial vehicle-related standards in conjunction with the Following Too Closely Law. This law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance to allow adequate time to stop. Maintaining proper spacing becomes critical when large trucks and passenger vehicles share freeway space. These considerations help CHP evaluate what may have led to the Foothill Freeway crash.
Support for Rios’ Family
If you are related to Angie Rios, staying in contact with the California Highway Patrol can help you receive updates and request the official collision report when it becomes available.
You may also consider speaking with a legal professional experienced in fatal freeway crashes involving commercial vehicles to better understand your options. Emotional support matters, and leaning on family, friends, or local grief counseling resources can help during an especially difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
