CHP: Big Rig Driver Who Crashed in Beaumont Fell Asleep at Wheel

The man behind the wheel of a big rig that crashed in Beaumont over the weekend believes he dozed off right before the crash, officials tell Patch.

According to the California Highway Patrol, 43-year-old David Alvarez stated he was sleepy and fatigued just prior to the 3 a.m. crash Saturday on Interstate 10 at Oak Valley Parkway.

After first sideswiping a car parked along the eastbound shoulder, the truck then managed to drive nearly 100 yards off the freeway, as it crossed not only a grass/dirt median on the right side the freeway lanes, but also crossed the eastbound onramp at Oak Valley Parkway, according to CHP Officer Trevor Cahill and on-scene reports. 

The truck eventually crashed into an eucalyptus tree and perimeter fence on the other side of that onramp, splitting into multiple pieces.  A load of lettuce was spilled all across the shoulder, as was diesel fuel and oil.

Cahill said the driver told CHP investigators he thinks he fell asleep, and at this point, "there are no witnesses to the contrary" of his story.

Alvarez was not arrested, nor was he hurt in the crash, Cahill said.

However, he was cited for an "unsafe turning movement," which resulted in the crash, according to the officer.