SAN JOSE, Santa Clara County, Calif., Oct. 22, 2026 — Three vehicles collided Wednesday evening, October 21, on southbound US-101 just south of the Brokaw Road off-ramp in San Jose, according to the California Highway Patrol. At least one person was reported injured and an ambulance was requested.
The CHP said the crash involved a black Lexus SUV, a silver Toyota Camry and a Honda, with the Lexus reportedly ending up on its roof. Radio traffic logged by the agency described minor injuries and noted that occupants were out of their vehicles after the collision.
Officers blocked two lanes on southbound 101 while crews worked the scene, CHP logs show. Tow trucks were called for at least two of the vehicles, and one lane reopened by 7:36 p.m.
The circumstances that led to the crash remain under review. We wish the injured a speedy recovery.
Local Crash Information for San Jose, CA
This multi-vehicle crash happened on US-101 in San Jose, CA. For more on crashes in San Jose, including local crash figures, trauma care and how to request a police report, visit our San Jose, CA accident reports page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do chain-reaction crashes happen?
They typically start when one vehicle slows or stops unexpectedly and following drivers can't react in time, especially in heavy freeway traffic where following distances are already short.
How can drivers avoid being caught in a pile-up?
Leaving extra space between vehicles, 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?
Stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt on if it's safe to do so, turn on hazard lights, and wait for officers to direct traffic instead of trying to maneuver around the scene.
How does fog or low visibility contribute to pile-ups?
Reduced visibility shortens the time drivers have to see and react to slowed or stopped traffic ahead, which is part of why multi-vehicle crashes often cluster in foggy or low-light conditions.
What to Do After a Multi-Vehicle Crash in San Jose, CA
If you're involved in a crash on a busy freeway like this one, try to move to the shoulder or a nearby exit if your vehicle is drivable and it's safe to do so. Check yourself and passengers for injuries, and call 911 even if injuries seem minor, since some symptoms show up hours later. Exchange information with other drivers and take photos of the vehicles and surroundings if you're able. Getting checked by a doctor afterward, even after a seemingly minor collision, is a good idea since whiplash and other soft-tissue injuries aren't always obvious right away. Keep a copy of the CHP incident report for your records once it becomes available.