San Diego County, CA (February 13, 2026) – Two people were injured and transported to a hospital early on Thursday morning, February 12, following a three-vehicle collision on Interstate 15 southbound near State Route 76 in San Diego County.
Key Details
- Reported: Thursday, February 12 at 5:29 a.m.
- Location: Southbound I-15 near SR-76
- Type: Three-vehicle traffic collision
- Vehicles: Ford F-150, Toyota Prius, gray Hyundai Elantra
- Injuries: Two people were transported to a local hospital
- Traffic Impact: Lanes one and two blocked; tow trucks dispatched
What We Know So Far
- The crash occurred on the southbound lanes of I-15 near the SR-76 interchange.
- Three vehicles were involved, including a Ford F-150, a Toyota Prius, and a gray Hyundai Elantra.
- Lanes one and two were blocked while emergency crews worked at the scene.
- Fire personnel also reported a secondary collision nearby during the response.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The identities and conditions of the injured individuals have not been released.
- Authorities have not disclosed what caused the crash.
- It is unclear whether weather, speed, or other factors contributed to the incident.
Local Context
The southbound I-15 corridor near SR-76 is a heavily traveled stretch of freeway connecting North County communities with the greater San Diego region. Early morning traffic often includes commuters, commercial vehicles, and drivers heading toward coastal and inland destinations. When multiple vehicles block lanes in this area, congestion can build quickly, especially near interchange ramps. Secondary collisions are also a concern when drivers approach stopped traffic at freeway speeds.
What to Do Next
- If you encounter slowed or stopped traffic on the freeway, reduce speed gradually and activate hazard lights if necessary.
- Maintain a safe following distance to help prevent secondary collisions.
- If involved in a crash, move vehicles out of traffic lanes when it is safe to do so.
- Seek medical evaluation after a collision, even if injuries seem minor at first.
FAQ
Q: Why do freeway crashes often lead to secondary collisions?
A: Vehicles traveling at high speeds may not have enough time to react to sudden traffic slowdowns, increasing the risk of additional crashes.
Q: What happens when lanes are blocked after a crash?
A: Emergency crews secure the scene, assist injured parties, and coordinate towing services before reopening affected lanes.
Q: Can an investigation continue after vehicles are towed?
A: Yes. Authorities may review reports, examine vehicle damage, and gather witness statements as part of their investigation.
