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NATIONAL CITY, San Diego County, Calif., Nov. 5, 2026 — Two vehicles collided on northbound Interstate 805 near State Route 54 on Wednesday afternoon, November 4, according to the California Highway Patrol. At least one air bag deployed in the crash, which blocked lanes for a stretch of the morning commute's return traffic.
The California Highway Patrol said a white sedan reportedly cut across multiple lanes before colliding with a dark colored vehicle. The collision happened in or near the carpool lane, and the wreckage created a traffic hazard in that lane afterward. Air bags deployed in at least one of the two vehicles, the agency reported, though the extent of any injuries was not released.
Responders requested a medical evaluation at the scene, radio traffic showed, and a tow truck was later dispatched to clear the vehicles. Metro reported that two lanes remained blocked as crews worked the scene, and a freeway camera system was activated to help monitor traffic near the H Street interchange. The California Highway Patrol closed its incident log in the early afternoon.
No further details on the drivers or the cause of the lane change have been released. The crash remains under investigation.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
Intersection Safety in California
The crash was reported at Interstate 805 and State Route 54 in National City. Readers following crash news in San Diego County can find more about intersections across the state on our guide to California intersections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a car accident?
Move to a safe location if possible, check for injuries, call 911, and exchange information with the other driver. Document the scene with photos if you're able to safely do so.
Where do most traffic accidents happen?
Many crashes occur on busy highways and interchanges, especially where vehicles must merge, change lanes, or navigate heavy congestion, like the stretch where interstates meet.
What injuries are most common in car accidents?
Common injuries include whiplash, cuts and bruises from broken glass or air bag deployment, and sprains. More forceful collisions can cause broken bones or head injuries.
