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DUBLIN, Alameda County, Calif., Sept. 25, 2026 — A wrong-way vehicle was involved in a two-car crash on eastbound Interstate 580 at Tassajara Road Wednesday afternoon, September 23, according to the California Highway Patrol. The collision left one vehicle facing the wrong direction in the center divider and blocked lanes for a time, the CHP said.
The agency's traffic log shows a caller first reported a blue Mazda sedan facing the wrong way on the shoulder around 2:30 p.m., blocking the number one lane. Radio traffic noted the car appeared to be attempting to cross into the center divider, and dispatchers were initially unsure of the location of a second vehicle involved.
Minutes later, units on scene confirmed a two-vehicle crash with minor injuries. A tow was requested for the Mazda, which reportedly had major damage to its rear end and was left facing the wrong way in the center divider. A tow was also requested for a white Toyota Tundra pickup with major front-end damage on its right side.
Fire crews responded and were reported blocking the express lane while working the scene. The express lane reopened by about 2:53 p.m., and the log notes the incident may be tied to another reported collision in the area.
The investigation remains open. We wish the injured a speedy recovery.
A Common Misconception About Wrong-Way Crashes
Many drivers assume wrong-way crashes are mostly caused by confused tourists or elderly motorists who miss an exit sign. The data tells a different story about who ends up going the wrong way on a divided highway.
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, drivers without valid licenses had a higher risk of fatal wrong-way crashes on divided highways in 2014 through 2023. That points to a mix of unlicensed, unqualified, or otherwise unauthorized drivers behind the wheel, not simply drivers who took a wrong turn by accident.
That distinction matters for how these crashes get prevented. Signage and lighting fixes address navigation mistakes, but they don't address a driver who isn't licensed to be on the road in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time of day are wrong-way crashes most common?
They cluster in the late night and early morning hours, though they can happen at any time, including daylight hours as seen in some reported cases.
How can drivers avoid a wrong-way collision?
Stay alert for headlights approaching in your lane, keep to the right when possible, and avoid driving in the far left lane at night when visibility is limited.
What should I do if I see a wrong-way driver?
Slow down, move to the right, and call 911 with your location and direction of travel so authorities can respond quickly.
How do highways try to prevent wrong-way entries?
Many agencies use lowered wrong-way signs, reflective pavement markers, and sensor systems at off-ramps to detect and alert drivers heading the wrong direction.
What to Do After a Wrong-Way Car Accident in Dublin, CA
If you're involved in or witness a wrong-way crash, move to a safe location if possible and call 911 right away. Even if injuries seem minor at first, it's wise to get checked by a medical provider, since some symptoms from a collision don't show up immediately.
Take photos of the vehicles and the roadway if you're able to safely do so, and get the names of any responding officers or agencies. Ask how to obtain the official crash report once it's finalized, as this document is often needed for insurance purposes. If you were a witness, staying to give a statement to CHP officers can help investigators piece together what happened.
