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PHELAN, San Bernardino County, Calif., Oct. 18, 2026 — Several people were hurt Saturday afternoon, October 17, when a pickup and a sedan collided on westbound State Route 138 at Phelan Road, according to the California Highway Patrol. The Sheriff's Office later confirmed one driver tested positive for alcohol.
A white Toyota Tacoma and a gray Toyota Camry crashed in the westbound lanes. A caller at the scene reported multiple injured parties and asked that the call be routed to the main communications center.
The Camry blocked part of the roadway after the crash, and its driver was reported out on the shoulder before medics arrived. A small fire was reported at the scene and was knocked down, according to the dispatch record. The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Office responded alongside CHP units and confirmed a positive DUI finding involving one of the two drivers.
A tow company was called to remove at least one vehicle from the roadway.
The crash remains under investigation. We wish the injured a complete recovery.
More on Crashes in Phelan, CA
This crash happened at State Route 138 and Phelan Road in Phelan, CA. We cover crashes across San Bernardino County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our San Bernardino County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does alcohol affect a person's ability to drive safely?
Alcohol slows reaction time, narrows peripheral vision, and impairs judgment of speed and distance, making it harder to respond to sudden hazards like a car stopping or merging.
What times of day see the most impaired-driving crashes?
Impaired-driving crashes cluster in the evening and overnight hours, though they can happen at any time, including daytime, as this Phelan crash shows.
Is driving after just one or two drinks still risky?
Yes. Even blood alcohol levels below the legal limit can slow reflexes and reduce coordination enough to affect driving.
What's the best way to avoid driving after drinking?
Plan ahead with a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi before drinking begins, and never assume you're sober enough to drive after alcohol.
What to Do After a DUI Crash in Phelan, California
If you're involved in a DUI crash, move to a safe area if possible and call 911 right away. Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional, since pain from soft-tissue injuries can take hours or days to appear. Stay at the scene until law enforcement arrives and get the responding officer's name and report number. Take photos of both vehicles, the roadway, and any visible injuries if you're able to safely do so. Follow up with your own doctor in the days after the crash, and keep records of any treatment or time missed from work.
