Big Rig Crash Injures Drivers in Fresno Intersection

Big Rig Collision With Injuries at Maple and American Avenues in Fresno

Early Wednesday morning on November 13, 2025, a serious collision involving two big rigs occurred at the intersection of Maple Avenue and American Avenue in Fresno. According to preliminary information from local reports, the impact happened around 2:30 a.m. when an eastbound truck allegedly failed to stop at a stop sign, colliding with another big rig. The force of the crash sent both vehicles into a power pole, bringing down live electrical wires and sparking a nearby brush fire. Emergency crews responded swiftly, treating one driver at the scene and transporting the other to Community Regional Medical Center. Traffic delays followed while firefighters and utility crews worked to control the fire and secure the area. The investigation into the exact causes of the crash remains ongoing.

What We Know About the Crash

- Time and location: Approximately 2:30 a.m., Maple Avenue and American Avenue, Fresno.
- Vehicles involved: Two large commercial trucks (big rigs).
- Reported sequence: Authorities indicated the eastbound truck did not stop at a stop sign, leading to a collision with another big rig.
- Secondary hazards: Impact with a power pole caused downed live wires and a brush fire nearby.
- Injuries: Both drivers suffered injuries; one was treated at the scene and one was hospitalized.
- Roadway impact: Lane closures and delays persisted as crews handled fire suppression, power line hazards, and debris removal.
- Status: Law enforcement continues to investigate; additional details may be released as the case develops.

Potential Factors Under Investigation

While investigators have not issued final conclusions, collisions of this nature often involve multiple contributing factors. In early-morning hours, low visibility, fatigue, and limited traffic can increase the risk of missed traffic controls. In commercial trucking, additional issues may be reviewed:

- Driver fatigue and hours-of-service compliance
- Speed relative to intersection conditions and posted controls
- Distraction or inattention
- Mechanical issues such as brake performance or lighting defects
- Load weight, securement, and distribution
- Intersection design, signage visibility, and roadway lighting
- Weather, road surface conditions, and sightlines
- Utility pole placement and roadside hazards

Truck crashes can be complex because multiple entities may share responsibility, including the driver, the motor carrier (employer), maintenance contractors, parts manufacturers, cargo loaders, and, in limited circumstances, third parties responsible for roadway design or traffic control.

Safety and Public Hazards: Downed Lines and Brush Fire

This incident underscores the dangers that can follow a truck crash. Live electrical lines require immediate perimeter control and utility shutdown before first responders and cleanup crews can operate safely. Any bystanders or witnesses should always keep a safe distance, avoid touching vehicles or metal nearby, and follow instructions from fire and law enforcement personnel. Brush fires can spread rapidly, especially in dry conditions; timely reporting and scene management can prevent further property damage and injuries.

Common Injuries and Immediate Steps After a Truck Crash

Injury patterns in big rig collisions can include orthopedic trauma, head and neck injuries, internal injuries, burns, and electrical exposure when downed wires are involved. If you are involved in a truck crash:

- Seek medical attention immediately, even if symptoms seem minor. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
- Call 911 and cooperate with responding officers.
- Photograph vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and road conditions if it’s safe to do so.
- Get witness names and contact information.
- Avoid discussing fault at the scene.
- Notify your insurer promptly, but avoid giving recorded statements to adverse insurers until you’ve obtained legal guidance.
- Preserve all medical records, invoices, and repair estimates.

Liability and Your Legal Rights in California Truck Accidents

California law allows injured people to seek compensation when another party’s negligence causes harm. In truck cases, liability may extend beyond the driver:

- Truck driver (e.g., failure to stop, speeding, distraction)
- Motor carrier/employer (vicarious liability, negligent hiring/retention/supervision)
- Maintenance provider or parts manufacturer (mechanical failure or defective components)
- Cargo loader or shipper (improper securement or overweight loads)
- Third parties responsible for roadway signage, signals, or lighting in limited circumstances

As authorities continue examining the factors that led to this serious big-rig collision, the full impact on the victims and their families is still unfolding. Commercial trucking accidents often involve complex questions of liability, maintenance issues, and federal safety compliance—matters that can be overwhelming for those suddenly facing medical bills, lost income, and long-term recovery.
At Avian Law Group, our attorneys are closely monitoring the investigation and remain committed to ensuring that the injured receive the support and legal protection they deserve. Our team has extensive experience handling large-scale trucking accidents and understands the urgency of preserving evidence, identifying responsible parties, and securing fair compensation.
As this case develops, Avian Law Group will continue standing with the victims, advocating for their rights, and helping families navigate every step of the legal and recovery process.