Long Beach, CA — December 18, 2024, Jose Deras was killed in a truck accident at about 11 a.m. on the San Gabriel River Freeway/Interstate 605.
Authorities said a box truck crashed into a semi-truck that had pulled over along the highway near Wardlow Road.
Jose Deras, 31, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to authorities, but it is not clear how he was involved in the crash.
Authorities have not released any additional details about the crash at this point.
The accident remains under investigation.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
A crash like this, involving a box truck and a semi-truck stopped on the shoulder, raises several critical questions about how and why the vehicles came to collide. The fact that authorities have not yet clarified how the victim was involved only underscores the need for a thorough investigation to uncover what happened.
The first point of inquiry is the semi-truck’s presence on the shoulder. Commercial vehicles are allowed to stop on the side of the highway only in emergencies, such as mechanical failures or medical issues. If the truck was parked for a non-emergency reason — such as the driver running out of hours or choosing an unsafe location to take a break — that could significantly contribute to the liability in this case. Investigators should review the truck driver’s logbooks, electronic logging devices (ELDs) and any maintenance issues that may have prompted the stop.
The box truck’s role in the crash also demands scrutiny. Did the driver fail to maintain lane discipline and drift onto the shoulder? If so, was this due to distraction, fatigue or some other factor? Investigators will need to examine cell phone records, engine control module (ECM) data and any in-cab camera footage to determine the driver’s behavior leading up to the crash.
Another critical element is visibility and signage. If the semi-truck was parked legally and appropriately, was it adequately marked with hazard lights, reflective triangles or flares to alert other drivers? California law and federal regulations require truck drivers to deploy warning devices when stopped on a highway shoulder. Failure to do so can make a stationary truck almost invisible to approaching drivers, particularly during high-traffic periods.
Lastly, it’s essential to determine how the victim came to be involved in the collision. Was he a driver or passenger in one of the vehicles? Or was he a pedestrian outside the vehicle at the time of impact? Each scenario raises unique questions about the actions of all involved parties.
This case highlights the complexities of truck accidents, particularly when a stationary vehicle is involved. Understanding who bears responsibility requires a detailed examination of driver actions, vehicle conditions, and adherence to safety regulations. For the victim’s family, a complete investigation is necessary not only for accountability but also to prevent similar crashes in the future.
call us 
Email Us 
Text us