Siskiyou County, CA (August 21, 2024) – A tragic accident early Wednesday morning resulted in the death of 32-year-old Amrit Pal Singh of Rancho Cordova, who was a sleeping passenger in a semi-truck that veered off the road on Highway 89 in Siskiyou County.
Accident Details: The incident occurred around 12:30 a.m. when the 72-year-old driver of the semi-truck, also from Sacramento County, fell asleep at the wheel near the Shasta County border. Singh, the passenger, was sleeping as well. The vehicle drifted off the road, sideswiping a tree before the driver woke up and attempted to regain control. Unfortunately, the over-correction caused the truck to go off an embankment, crashing into several trees before stopping.
The driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to Mercy Medical Center in Mount Shasta. Singh was severely injured and transported to Mayers Memorial Hospital in Fall River Mills, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. In cases where a driver falls asleep at the wheel, investigating whether fatigue was due to excessive hours of driving, lack of rest, or any violation of federal trucking regulations is essential. Trucking companies and their drivers must comply with strict regulations limiting the number of hours a driver can be on the road before taking mandatory rest breaks. If the driver disobeyed the regulations, they may be liable. If the investigation reveals that the driver was overworked or not provided adequate rest, the trucking company could be liable for negligence.
If the investigation finds that negligence was the cause of the accident, Singh’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim and recover compensation for the death of their loved one.
I extend my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Amrit Pal Singh during this difficult time.
Source: Redding Record Searchlight