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San Diego, CA (September 10, 2026) – Three people were injured in a three-vehicle crash Tuesday, September 8, on northbound Interstate 5 near Hawthorn Street in San Diego.
The California Highway Patrol responded to the crash around 9:46 a.m. A gray Mazda Miata, a gold Toyota Corolla and a black Ford Explorer were reported involved. The vehicles were on the right side of the freeway, and the crash initially blocked the No. 1 lane.
One person was reported bleeding from the head, and the middle vehicle had deployed airbags. Fire crews were requested to assist, and CHP later classified the incident as a minor-injury crash. One person was transported for medical treatment, and a tow was requested for the damaged vehicles.
Our thoughts are with everyone injured in this crash and their loved ones. We wish all three injured individuals a full and speedy recovery.
What Should Drivers Know When Traffic Slows Suddenly on a Freeway?
Freeway traffic can change quickly when a vehicle brakes suddenly or a crash blocks a travel lane. Drivers should look beyond the vehicle directly ahead so they can recognize slowing traffic earlier and begin reducing speed smoothly. Maintaining a reasonable following distance is especially important at higher speeds.
Multi-vehicle crashes can also develop when motorists make abrupt lane changes to avoid congestion or an obstruction. Make sure to check mirrors and blind spots before moving into another lane and should avoid crossing several lanes at once. If traffic is slowing near an incident, remaining predictable can help other motorists respond safely.
Emergency activity can create additional hazards around a freeway crash. You should slow down when approaching stopped vehicles, give emergency crews plenty of room, and follow lane-control signs or directions.
