Major traffic delays between Los Angeles and Las Vegas left drivers stranded on Interstate 15 after a truck catches fire. The big rig was carrying lithium batteries and overturned before the vehicle caught fire. The incident, which happened near the Afton Road exit in San Bernardino County, led to a complete standstill as special crews and emergency responders worked tirelessly throughout Friday and Saturday.
Caltrans reported receiving 80 calls from stranded motorists, and in response, they coordinated the delivery of essential supplies, including 100 gallons of diesel, 60 gallons of gasoline, and eight pallets of drinking water. As temperatures soared in the desert, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) conducted welfare checks on every vehicle on both I-15 and the diversion route on I-40.
Hazmat Situation & Emergency Response
The truck catches fire event presented significant challenges due to the hazardous materials involved. Lithium batteries pose a dangerous risk of releasing toxic gases into the environment. The remote location of the desert compounded these challenges, leading to a full closure of the roadway to protect public safety. Hazmat crews and scientists from Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties continue to assess the situation as well.
The incident was cleared by approximately 3 a.m. on Sunday, July 28, with traffic flowing smoothly. This situation where a battery truck catches fire shows the difficulties of managing emergencies in isolated areas. Motorists must always prepare for these dire situations because you never know when a truck catches fire.
Safety Tips For Drivers
Nobody can predict when a truck catches fire. It’s one of those situations that surprises everyone on the road, especially with the volume of drivers traveling between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. With the freeway at a virtual standstill, drivers find themselves stuck with nowhere to go. Caltrans reports several people sleeping in their cars at gas stations overnight, as concerns about food, water, and fuel grew.
This weekend’s incident is one the extreme examples, but it’s a reality. Drivers should know what to do when facing these critical circumstances. Here are some essential safety tips when a truck catches fire:
- Remain Calm – If you are stuck in a big traffic jam, stay calm and assess your surroundings. People tend to panic in these situations and make bad decisions. These decisions have consequences, like causing an accident, which only exacerbates the problem.
- Stay Inside Vehicle – To avoid inhaling potentially hazardous fumes, stay remain in your vehicle and keep the windows closed. It’s safer to stay inside your car unless instructed otherwise by authorities.
- Keep Your Distance – Maintain a safe distance from the burning vehicle, as truck fires can quickly escalate and involve explosions, especially with hazardous materials like lithium batteries.
- Follow EMS Instructions – Follow the instructions of emergency responders and law enforcement. They are trained to handle such situations and will provide guidance on whether to evacuate or stay in place.
- Prepare For Delays – In case of extended delays, ensure you have essential supplies such as water, snacks, and a fully charged phone. It’s also helpful to have a car emergency kit on hand.
Preventing When A Truck Catches Fire
While it may not always be possible to prevent incidents like the truck fire on I-15, certain best practices can significantly reduce the risk of such occurrences. Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial, particularly for professional drivers transporting hazardous materials. This maintenance includes thorough inspections of brakes, tires, and electrical systems to ensure they are in good working order.
Proper handling and storage of hazardous materials are also essential, as adherence to safety regulations can prevent accidents. Additionally, staying informed about road conditions and potential hazards is important. Being prepared for emergencies, including having an evacuation plan and emergency contacts ready to go. By following these guidelines, drivers can enhance their safety and the safety of others on the road.
Dial Deldar
The recent truck fire incident on I-15 highlights the critical need for drivers to stay prepared and exercise caution on the road. Such unexpected events can have widespread consequences, affecting countless travelers. At Deldar Injury Attorneys, we commit to helping individuals affected by accidents and hazardous situations. If someone has injured you or a loved one due to another’s negligence, contact us for a free consultation at (844) 335-3271.
Tagged with: Commercial Trucking Accident, Desert Accident, Injury News, Traffic
Posted in: Big Rig Accidents