Randy Samples killed in single-vehicle truck crash on Highway 31

Pickup truck veered off roadway near milepost 12

January 04, 2026 | Klamath, OR

A tragic single-vehicle crash on Highway 31 in Klamath, Oregon, claimed the life of one individual and left another with serious injuries. The incident occurred near milepost 12 around 10 a.m. on Jan. 4.

What Happened in the Crash?

Randy Laverne Samples, 62, of Bend, died at the scene after the Dodge Ram 1500 in which he was a passenger overturned and struck a tree on Highway 31.

The Oregon State Police reported that a Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck, driven by a 56-year-old man from Bend, was traveling southbound in the passing lane. The driver had just passed another vehicle when control was lost, causing the truck to veer off the roadway.

Key details include:

• Location: Highway 31 near milepost 12, Klamath, Oregon
• Date and Time: Jan. 4, approximately 10 a.m.
• Vehicle Involved: Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck
• Fatal Victim: Randy Laverne Samples, 62, of Bend, passenger, pronounced dead at the scene
• Injuries: Driver sustained serious injuries and was transported to a hospital
• Crash Sequence: Vehicle left the road, entered a ditch, overturned, went airborne, and came to rest in a tree

The investigation points to speed and road conditions as primary contributing factors, with the investigation ongoing.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Single-vehicle crashes like this rollover often stem from a combination of driver behavior and environmental factors. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speed-related crashes account for a significant portion of fatal incidents on rural highways.

Common causes in similar scenarios include:

• Excessive speed, especially during overtaking maneuvers
• Adverse road conditions, such as wet or uneven surfaces
• Loss of control due to inattention or fatigue

For a broader context, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reports that rural road crashes have higher fatality rates due to limited access to emergency services.

This table highlights key statistics on contributing factors in motor vehicle crashes, underscoring the need for caution on highways like 31.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in motor vehicle crashes to support affected families.

“It is imperative to come to a determination of the exact cause of these types of accidents. An attorney has the resources to review applicable insurance coverage, hire witnesses, run background checks, and locate witnesses. We carefully guide the family of the victim through the process,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal.

She noted that, in cases such as this, an independent investigation is crucial to preserve evidence.

“In addition to a police report, an attorney will carefully review what may have contributed to the crash,” said Bond. “A lawyer has the resources to hire witnesses, conduct drivers’ background checks, locate witnesses to the crash and review applicable insurance coverage. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help guide an injury victim through what can be a complicated process.”

Pending the investigation, family members may pursue a wrongful death claim for damages including loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

"The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. "We understand just what families are forced to go through, and protecting their rights is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected," added Formica.

Key takeaways:

• Independent reviews can uncover overlooked evidence in crash investigations
• Legal support helps navigate insurance and liability complexities
• Families may seek compensation for emotional and financial losses in wrongful death cases
• Early attorney involvement preserves critical details for claims

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