On Tuesday, June 16, nine vehicles were involved in a major crash on Interstate 80.
According to California Highway Patrol, the accident happened at around 10.30 on the Interstate near Reed Avenue in West Sacramento.
A big rig, being driven westbound by 63 year old San Francisco resident Christopher Ayala at around 55 mph, failed to slow for the traffic and smashed into the eight vehicles ahead of him. It was not known why he did not slow but police say he was not under the influence of either drugs or alcohol.
Ayala collided with the first vehicle and then carried on hitting another seven before veering across the lanes and onto the dirt and grass at the side of the road. The rig traveled off road for around a quarter of a mile before stopping.
In total there were 12 people in the vehicles he hit. They ranged in age from 12 to 63 and most complained of pain. Several people were injured, with 53 year old Eric Melbt of West Sacramento suffering from broken ribs, a broken arm and head lacerations. Four people had minor injuries which required hospital treatment and the rest walked away from the crash uninjured.
Westbound traffic on I 80 was closed for four hours.
If you have been injured in an auto accident, the Sacramento accident attorneys of Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger are here to help. Please, call us today at (415) 906-3764 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
