HOLLISTER, San Benito County, Calif., Sept. 18, 2026 — Two people were hurt Thursday afternoon, September 17, in a collision between two pickup trucks on State Route 25 at Quien Sabe Road, according to authorities. One person was reportedly arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
State authorities said the crash happened around 5 p.m. on northbound Route 25 near Quien Sabe Road, involving two white pickup trucks. Radio traffic indicated one truck had reportedly been passing unsafely just before the collision. Both vehicles came to rest on the right side of the highway, and officers noted major front end damage to one truck and major damage to the driver's side of the other, along with a resulting hazard blocking part of the roadway.
At least one occupant was reportedly transported to a hospital in San Benito County with complaints of pain. A tow truck was requested to clear the vehicles from the scene.
Records from the scene indicate a person was arrested at the location on suspicion of a DUI-related offense under the California Vehicle Code. Blood testing was reportedly arranged as part of the investigation.
The incident remains under review. We wish those injured a full recovery.
Where DUI Crashes Concentrate on Rural Highways Near Hollister
Impaired-driving crashes tend to cluster on undivided two-lane highways like the stretch of Route 25 that runs through San Benito County. These roads often carry higher speeds, limited lighting, and few passing lanes, which means a driver who is impaired has less room to correct a mistake before crossing into oncoming traffic or clipping another vehicle during a pass.
Rural highway intersections without signals, such as those where a state route meets a county road, are also common trouble spots. Drivers unfamiliar with the road, combined with reduced reaction time from alcohol or drugs, raise the odds of a misjudged pass or a failure to yield.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, alcohol-impaired driving fatalities decreased from 1,419 in 2022 to 1,355 in 2023. Even with that decline, impaired driving remains a recurring factor on stretches of highway like the one in San Benito County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "buzzed" driving really dangerous?
Yes. Even blood alcohol levels below the legal limit slow reaction time and reduce judgment, which can affect a driver's ability to pass safely or respond to oncoming traffic.
How can I avoid driving after drinking?
Arrange a ride in advance, whether that's a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi, before you start drinking. Planning ahead removes the decision from the moment you're already impaired.
What should I do if I suspect a drunk driver near me?
Keep a safe distance, avoid trying to pass or signal the driver, and report the vehicle's location and direction of travel to local authorities when it's safe to do so.
Why are impaired-driving crashes often more severe?
Impaired drivers react slower and often fail to brake or steer away before impact, which tends to increase the force involved compared to a driver who can attempt evasive action.
What to Do After a DUI Crash in Hollister, CA
If you're involved in a crash you believe involved an impaired driver, call 911 and stay at the scene until officers arrive. Even if you feel fine, seek a medical evaluation soon afterward, since some injuries don't show symptoms right away.
Request a copy of the official collision report once it's available, and note the names of any responding agencies. If you're a witness, share your observations directly with officers on scene so they're documented while memories are fresh.
