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LA JOLLA, San Diego County, Calif., Oct. 19, 2026 — A crash involving at least three vehicles shut down lanes on northbound Interstate 5 near Gilman Drive early Monday morning, October 19, according to the California Highway Patrol. At least one person was hurt and taken for treatment, the agency said.
The collision was first reported as a two-vehicle wreck involving a white Volkswagen Beetle and another vehicle. The call was later updated to reflect three vehicles involved, with two pulled to the right shoulder and one left blocking a center divider lane. A gray pickup truck was also reported on the left shoulder with heavy damage.
A witness told responding units that the gray pickup had been driving recklessly before the crash. That claim has not been independently confirmed and remains part of the investigation.
Emergency crews requested an ambulance for injuries at the scene, and the call was elevated to reflect an injury collision. CHP units also moved to block a transition lane from westbound Highway 52 to northbound I-5 to manage traffic around the wreck. A tow truck was called to clear at least one vehicle from the roadway.
Authorities continue investigating the crash. We wish those injured a full recovery.
More on Crashes in La Jolla, CA
This multi-vehicle crash happened at Interstate 5 and Gilman Drive in La Jolla, CA. We cover crashes across San Diego County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our San Diego County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does low visibility or darkness contribute to multi-vehicle pile-ups?
Reduced visibility, whether from fog, darkness, or glare, cuts down the time drivers have to react to slowing or stopped traffic ahead. On freeways, this can cause a chain reaction as following vehicles strike one another in quick succession.
Why does following distance matter so much in these crashes?
Keeping a safe gap behind the vehicle ahead gives a driver more time to brake or steer away from trouble. When vehicles follow too closely, even a minor slowdown up front can trigger a rear-end chain collision involving several cars.
Are secondary crashes common after an initial wreck?
Yes. Vehicles that stop or slow near an earlier crash create a new hazard for approaching traffic, especially at night or on a curve. That risk is part of why responders often move quickly to block lanes or redirect traffic around a scene.
What makes multi-vehicle crashes difficult to investigate?
With several vehicles and drivers involved, investigators often have to sort through conflicting accounts, partial witness statements, and damage patterns to determine the sequence of impacts. That process can take time, especially when key witnesses are hard to reach or translation is needed.
What to Do After a Multi-Vehicle Crash in La Jolla, CA
If you're involved in a multi-vehicle crash, try to move to a safe spot away from traffic if your vehicle is drivable and it's safe to do so. Call 911 and let dispatchers know how many vehicles and people are involved, since that helps responders send the right resources.
Even if you feel fine, it's worth getting checked by a medical professional afterward. Adrenaline can mask pain from neck, back, or head injuries that show up hours or days later. Keep a record of what you observed at the scene, including vehicle positions and any statements made by other drivers, in case the CHP report needs clarification later. If a report has been filed, you can usually request a copy from the agency that responded.
