Available 
Available 
Del Mar, CA (September 2, 2026) – A three-vehicle collision was reported on southbound Interstate 5 near the Via de la Valle off-ramp on Monday, August 31. The first call came in at about 9:35 a.m., involving a white Lexus sedan and two other vehicles.
Two vehicles were blocking a travel lane near the top of the ramp, while the Lexus was reported in the center divider. Efforts were made to clear the lanes, and emergency units were present by about 9:39 a.m.
Medical assistance was requested around 9:40 a.m. Two tow trucks were also requested, and a traffic break was later put in place north of Lomas Santa Fe Drive.
The circumstances leading to the wreck remain under investigation. We hope anyone hurt makes a full recovery.
How Can Multi-Vehicle Freeway Crashes Disrupt Morning Traffic?
When several vehicles become disabled on a freeway, even one blocked lane can quickly reduce traffic flow. Drivers approaching the slowdown may need to brake or merge with limited space, particularly during busy morning travel.
Vehicles stopped near ramps or center dividers can create added challenges because traffic may already be changing lanes to enter or leave the freeway. Tow truck operations can also require temporary lane control while disabled vehicles are moved safely.
Traffic breaks are sometimes used to slow approaching vehicles and create space farther ahead. These measures can help protect workers and motorists while lanes are being cleared. The length of a delay often depends on how many lanes are affected, traffic volume, and how quickly the vehicles can be removed.
