Available 
CHINO HILLS, San Bernardino County, Calif., Oct. 16, 2026 — A two-vehicle crash blocked southbound lanes of State Route 71 near Pine Avenue in Chino Hills on Thursday morning, October 15. At least one person was reportedly injured, though the extent of any injuries has not been released.
The California Highway Patrol said the crash involved a sedan and an SUV south of Pine Avenue on SR-71. One vehicle reportedly came to rest on the right shoulder, while the other was left blocking middle lanes of the highway, based on radio traffic logged by dispatchers. A separate SUV involved in the incident reportedly suffered front axle damage and was blocking a lane as well, though it was unclear if it was connected to the same collision or a related one nearby.
The incident was initially logged as a collision with unknown injuries before being upgraded by the CHP to a collision with injuries. Officers requested multiple tow trucks to clear vehicles from the roadway, and the CHP reported that the first and second lanes would remain shut down until towing was completed. Traffic backups were also reported eastbound near Grove Avenue, though it was not immediately confirmed whether that congestion was linked to the SR-71 crash.
No further details on the drivers, number of people hurt, or cause of the crash have been released. The California Highway Patrol has not indicated whether the investigation is ongoing.
We hope those who were hurt recover fully and quickly.
More on Crashes in Chino Hills, CA
This crash happened at State Route 71 and Pine Avenue in Chino Hills, CA. We cover crashes across San Bernardino County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our San Bernardino County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries are most common in car accidents like this one?
Car crashes involving a sedan and an SUV usually cause whiplash, head and neck injuries, and broken bones, particularly when one vehicle sustains front-end damage. Injuries can range from minor to serious depending on speed and impact point.
What typically causes crashes on highways like SR-71?
Common causes include following too closely, unsafe lane changes, distracted driving, and sudden braking in heavy traffic. Investigators usually look at speed and driver attention when reviewing collisions on multi-lane highways.
Why is distracted driving a factor in so many crashes?
Taking attention off the road, even briefly, reduces a driver's ability to react to sudden slowdowns or lane changes by other vehicles. On busy highways, a short lapse can be enough to cause a rear-end or side-impact collision.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Chino Hills, CA
If you're involved in a crash on a highway like SR-71, try to move to the shoulder if your vehicle is drivable and it's safe to do so. Turn on hazard lights and call 911 to report injuries and request assistance. Even if you feel fine, a medical check is worth getting, since some injuries like whiplash or internal bruising don't show symptoms right away. Exchange information with the other driver, take photos of vehicle positions and damage if possible, and get the name of the responding CHP unit or officer for your records. Keep copies of any medical visits and repair estimates in case you need them later.
