Available 
SAN JOSE, Santa Clara County, Calif., Oct. 26, 2026 — A chain-reaction crash involving at least three vehicles shut down lanes on northbound US-101 just south of Bailey Avenue early on Monday morning, October 26, according to the California Highway Patrol. At least one person was reported hurt.
The California Highway Patrol said the call came in shortly after 2:20 a.m. near the Bailey Avenue overcrossing. Early radio traffic described one vehicle stopped sideways and blocking lanes, with people reportedly out of their cars and walking in the roadway before a third vehicle became involved. The initial report also referenced a possible solo rollover, though that detail was not confirmed in later updates.
An ambulance was requested for an injury shortly after the first reports came in, and the CHP later classified the crash as a minor-injury collision. A tow truck was also requested to clear the scene. By about 2:53 a.m., the two left lanes were closed, and traffic was routed through the remaining lanes, with full reopening still pending as of the final updates.
The cause of the crash has not been released and remains under investigation. It is not clear how many people were injured beyond the minor injury confirmed by CHP, and no names have been made public.
We hope those who were hurt recover fully and quickly.
Local Crash Information for San Jose, CA
This multi-vehicle crash happened at US-101 and Bailey Avenue in San Jose, CA. Our San Jose, CA crash reports and road safety guide brings together police report details, local crash data, and trauma care information in one place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do chain-reaction crashes happen?
They typically start when one vehicle stops or slows suddenly, often after an earlier collision or hazard, and following vehicles don't have enough space or time to stop before striking it.
How can drivers avoid getting caught in a pile-up?
Keeping a longer following distance, watching brake lights several cars ahead, and slowing early when traffic bunches up can help drivers react before a chain reaction reaches them.
What should I do if I'm stopped near a crash on the highway?
Turn on hazard lights, stay in the vehicle if it's not safe to exit, and move to the shoulder or a lane farther from the blocked lanes if possible until help arrives.
What to Do After a Multi-Vehicle Crash in San Jose, CA
If you're involved in a pile-up, check yourself and any passengers for injuries before stepping out, and watch for moving traffic if you do get out of the car. Even if you feel fine, it's worth getting checked by a medical professional, since injuries from being jolted or thrown against part of the vehicle aren't always obvious right away. Take photos of the scene and vehicle positions if it's safe to do so, and get a copy of the CHP report once it's available, since it often takes time for all vehicles and drivers involved in multi-car crashes like this one to be accounted for.
