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CITRUS HEIGHTS, Sacramento County, Calif., Sept. 20, 2026 — Two vehicles collided early on Saturday morning, September 19, on eastbound Greenback Lane just west of Garfield Avenue in Citrus Heights. The crash was reported before 6 a.m. and left a traffic hazard in the roadway.
Authorities said the collision involved a black SUV and a black sedan. A dark-colored Chevrolet Tahoe involved in the crash was reportedly not drivable and was towed from the scene. It was not immediately clear how many people were involved, though the incident was initially logged as a collision with injuries, and an ambulance was reportedly en route.
The roadway was affected while crews responded, and a tow truck was called to remove the disabled vehicle, authorities said. No further details on the cause of the crash or the condition of those involved have been released.
The California Highway Patrol is expected to continue looking into the circumstances of the crash. Authorities have not released additional information as of this writing.
We wish the injured a complete and speedy recovery.
A Common Misconception About Who Causes Weekend Morning Crashes
Many drivers assume that crashes involving SUVs mean the SUV occupants walk away and the smaller vehicle's occupants are the only ones hurt. That is not always the case. Vehicle size affects outcomes, but it does not eliminate risk for anyone in either vehicle, especially in side or angle impacts common in intersection-area crashes.
Part of the confusion comes from the way vehicle fleets are counted versus the way crashes are studied. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, passenger vehicles made up 92 percent of registered vehicles and 89 percent of vehicle miles traveled in 2023. Because passenger cars and SUVs already make up most vehicles on the road, they also make up most vehicles in crashes. That does not mean one vehicle type is inherently safer in every collision.
Crash severity depends on speed, angle of impact, and where each vehicle is struck, not just size. A larger vehicle can still sustain serious damage, and its occupants can still be hurt, depending on how the collision unfolds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do weather and road conditions affect crash risk?
Wet pavement, low light, and reduced visibility can all extend stopping distance and make it harder for drivers to react in time. Even on clear mornings, low sun angles or shadows near intersections can obscure other vehicles.
What should I do right after a car accident?
Move to a safe location if possible, check for injuries, and call 911. Exchange information with the other driver and, if it's safe to do so, take photos of the vehicles and the scene before anything is moved.
Where do most traffic collisions happen?
A large share of crashes occur at or near intersections, where vehicles cross paths, merge, or turn. Reduced visibility and higher decision-making demands in these areas contribute to the pattern.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Citrus Heights, CA
If you're involved in a crash in Citrus Heights, stay at the scene and call for medical help if anyone feels hurt, even if injuries aren't obvious right away. Adrenaline can mask pain, so it's worth getting checked out by a medical professional within a day or two.
Document the scene if you're able: photos of vehicle positions, damage, and road conditions can help later. Get a copy of the police report once it's available, and keep records of any medical visits tied to the crash. If your vehicle needs towing, confirm the shop's contact details and follow up on your vehicle's storage location and any fees.
