SAN RAFAEL, Marin County, Calif., Oct. 29, 2026 — A two-vehicle crash blocked lanes on northbound US-101 just north of Lucas Valley Road in San Rafael, California, on Tuesday afternoon, October 27, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The crash was reported shortly after 3 p.m. and initially blocked the two left lanes of northbound US-101, the California Highway Patrol said. Airbags deployed in both vehicles, the agency reported. Within minutes, blocking was narrowed to one lane as crews worked the scene.
One person suffered a head injury with bleeding and a gash, along with a possible concussion, and was reported to be in lane one of the freeway, according to CHP incident logs. San Rafael Fire personnel responded and requested ambulance transport for the injury. The log also noted that the injured party initially declined transport before fire crews intervened; the extent of the injuries has not been confirmed beyond what first responders described at the scene.
No vehicle descriptions were released, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation. It was not immediately clear how many people were involved in total or whether any other injuries were reported.
We hope everyone involved comes through this safely.
Intersection Safety in California
The crash was reported at US-101 and Lucas Valley Road in San Rafael. Readers following crash news in Marin County can find more about intersections across the state on our guide to California intersections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do right after a car accident?
Move to a safe location if possible, check for injuries, and call 911. Exchange information with other drivers, take photos of the scene, and avoid admitting fault before speaking with your insurer.
Where do most traffic accidents happen?
Many crashes cluster on highways near interchanges and merge points, where speed differences and lane changes increase risk, similar to the stretch of US-101 involved here.
What injuries are most common in car accidents?
Head injuries, whiplash, and soft-tissue trauma are frequently reported, especially in crashes involving sudden stops or airbag deployment. Even if symptoms seem minor, a medical evaluation is recommended.
What to Do After a Car Accident in San Rafael, CA
If you're involved in a crash in San Rafael, prioritize safety first. Turn on hazard lights, check on passengers, and move to the shoulder if your vehicle is drivable. Call 911 to report injuries and request medical help if anyone is hurt, even if injuries aren't immediately obvious. Get checked by a medical provider as soon as possible, since symptoms like concussions can take hours to appear. Keep records of the police report, any citations issued, and photos of the scene for insurance purposes. Reach out to your insurance company promptly, and give yourself time to rest and recover before making major decisions about repairs or claims.
