In a tragic incident on Saturday morning, one person was killed and others were injured in an accident involving a Tesla Model S vehicle and a stationary fire truck. The crash happened on Interstate 680 in Contra Costa County as firefighters worked to clear up an earlier collision.
According to reports, the Tesla collided with a fire truck blocking lanes on an angle and displaying its lights. The driver of the car was pronounced dead at the scene while a passenger and four firefighters in the truck were rushed to receive medical treatment. While details about the condition of the passenger are still unclear, thankfully all four firefighters have now been discharged from the hospital after receiving some minor injuries.
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District is conducting an in-depth safety inquiry and analyzing the repairability of their $2.1 million fire truck, all while the highway patrol focuses on a formal investigation into the crash.
A representative from the fire department expressed that when it collided with their truck, Tesla was driving at full speed — which isn’t particularly uncommon due to motorists’ tendency to neglect slowing down or changing lanes for emergency vehicles.
The Tesla was severely damaged and had to be cut open to rescue the people inside. Additionally, images released by the department show that even the fire truck couldn’t evade destruction — it too had to be towed away from the scene.
It remains unknown what caused the Tesla car crash, leaving many to speculate whether the driver was preoccupied or intoxicated while operating, as well as if any of Tesla’s autonomous driving features were engaged.
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If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident and need legal assistance, contact Farahi Law Firm. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your legal options and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Call us today at (844) 824-2955.
