Fog-Blanketed California Highway Sees 59-Vehicle Pileup, Injuring 10
On Saturday, a significant accident occurred on California’s Highway 99, resulting in a 59-vehicle pileup that injured ten people. This highway, notorious for its hazardous fog conditions, experienced reduced visibility of only 100 to 200 feet.
Details of the Accident
Emergency calls regarding the crash were received by the California Highway Patrol shortly after 8:15 a.m. local time. The incident unfolded in an unincorporated area of Tulare County, situated southeast of Fresno and north of Bakersfield.
Injuries and Rescue Efforts
- Ten individuals were injured in the incident.
- One person suffered a moderate injury, specifically a cut to the forehead.
- The remaining nine sustained minor injuries.
- All injured parties were promptly taken to local health care facilities for treatment.
Scene of the Accident
The massive pileup included various vehicles, such as big rigs, trucks, and cars. Many were reported to be severely damaged, with some vehicles appearing as crumpled metal masses in photographs from the scene.
Traffic Disruptions
The accident led to the closure of Highway 99 for more than six hours, causing significant traffic disruptions.
Historical Context
Highway 99 has a history of accidents attributed to thick fog. In a related incident on January 11, one person lost their life when visibility dropped to merely a dozen feet. That crash involved 17 vehicles. Furthermore, a tragic accident in 1990 resulted in five fatalities and over 30 injuries, demonstrating the highway’s dangerous conditions during foggy weather.
This latest pileup underscores the ongoing risks associated with poor visibility on California roads, especially during foggy conditions. Attention to road safety measures in these areas is more crucial than ever.
