GARDEN GROVE, Orange County, Calif., Oct. 23, 2026 — A two-vehicle crash blocked lanes on westbound Highway 22 at Harbor Boulevard Thursday evening, October 22, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The CHP said a Toyota SUV and a Honda CRV collided on the westbound highway near the Harbor Boulevard exit shortly before 5:35 p.m. Units were initially routed to the shoulder before the incident was reclassified from a collision with unknown injuries to one requiring an ambulance response.
A tow truck was requested for the Honda CRV. The log also references coordination with a rotation tow service and a nearby fire station, pointing to a multi-agency response at the scene.
Freeway Service Patrol crews assisted and closed out their portion of the response by 6:31 p.m.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. We hope everyone who was hurt makes a speedy recovery.
More on Crashes in Garden Grove, CA
This crash happened at Highway 22 and Harbor Boulevard in Garden Grove, CA. We cover crashes across Orange County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Orange County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries are commonly seen in two-vehicle crashes like this one?
Occupants can suffer whiplash, head or neck injuries, and bruising from the seatbelt or airbag, depending on the speed and angle of impact. Some injuries, like concussions, may not be obvious right away.
What usually causes crashes on busy freeway interchanges?
Common factors include following too closely, sudden lane changes near exits, distracted driving, and misjudging gaps in merging traffic.
Does driving speed change how serious a crash is?
Yes. Higher speeds mean more force at impact and less time to react, which tends to increase both the severity of injuries and the extent of vehicle damage.
Why is distracted driving considered especially risky near exits like Harbor Boulevard?
Interchanges require quick decisions as traffic merges, slows, or weaves toward an exit. A driver glancing at a phone or dashboard for even a couple of seconds can miss a sudden brake light or lane shift.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Garden Grove, CA
If you're involved in a crash on a freeway like Highway 22, try to move to the shoulder if the vehicle is drivable and it's safe to do so. Turn on hazard lights and stay inside the vehicle when possible, since standing near moving traffic is dangerous. Call 911 to report the collision and request medical help if anyone feels pain or disorientation, even if symptoms seem minor at first. Exchange information with the other driver and take photos of the vehicles and surrounding area if you're able. Afterward, follow up with a doctor for a full evaluation, since some injuries take a day or two to show symptoms, and keep copies of any medical records or police reports for your files.