FORT TEJON, CALIFORNIA (December 21, 2017) – Two people were killed on Thursday after a semi truck crashed at the top of an escape ramp off Interstate 5, according to an article by ABC23. (map)
The accident happened on Thursday, on the northbound side of the 5 Freeway. A semi truck traveling at a high rate of speed attempted to use the escape ramp near Fort Tejon and Grapevine Road. The semi truck crashed into the top of the escape ramp, and it is unknown why it was unable to stop.
The driver, a 44 year old man and a 42 year old female passenger were both tragically killed in the accident. Their names have not been released at this time. The investigation is still ongoing at this time.
Escape ramps, especially in the Grapevine area, have always been a source of accidents or near accidents. In a youtube video posted in 2014, a tanker truck can be seen using an escape ramp to slow his vehicle down safely. Escape ramps are put in mountainous areas to give out of control trucks a way to safely stop their trucks when their braking systems fail, but sometimes they are inadequate and often have solid walls at the end that might contribute to injuries.
It is unknown what caused the semi in Thursday’s accident to accelerate out of control, or whether the escape ramp contributed to the fatal accident in any way. HWG Law is still receiving updates at this time, and will continue to update this article.
“Sadly, there are no words that can comfort all family members and friends affected by this tragic accident,” said the attorneys from HWG Law. “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those involved.”
