UKIAH, Mendocino County, Calif., Oct. 23, 2026 — A multi-vehicle crash shut down both directions of Highway 20 near Highway 101 on Thursday evening, October 22, according to the California Highway Patrol's dispatch log. One woman was reportedly trapped in her vehicle with moderate injuries.
The crash was reported around 6:52 p.m. on a bridge just west of Road 144, east of Ukiah. Early reports on the number of vehicles involved varied between three and four, and that count has not been confirmed.
A caller told dispatchers a woman was trapped on the driver's side of one vehicle and that a baby was also inside. By about 7:05 p.m., an officer on scene reported that crews had begun extrication for the patient, who had moderate injuries. The condition of the baby was not released.
Emergency crews closed the highway in both directions while officers set up a turnaround near Road 144 and Highway 101. Several tow trucks were called for vehicles described as having major front-end damage, and Caltrans was asked to assist at the scene. By 7:41 p.m., one-way traffic control was in place in the westbound lane.
The cause of the crash has not been determined. The CHP has not released additional details, and the report remains based on preliminary dispatch information as the investigation continues.
We hope those who were hurt recover fully and quickly.
More on Crashes in Ukiah, CA
This multi-vehicle crash happened at Highway 20 and Highway 101 in Ukiah, CA. We cover crashes across Mendocino County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Mendocino County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes multi-vehicle crashes hard to investigate?
Investigators usually have to sort through conflicting accounts of how many vehicles were involved and the order in which impacts happened, especially when early reports come from multiple 911 callers describing the same scene differently.
What usually causes a multi-vehicle pile-up?
Common factors include sudden braking, reduced visibility, speed that's too fast for conditions, and a following vehicle that can't stop in time once traffic ahead slows or stops.
Why do chain-reaction crashes happen on highways like this?
A single stopped or slowed vehicle can trigger a chain reaction if drivers behind it don't have enough space or time to react, particularly on bridges or narrow stretches where there's little room to maneuver.
What to Do After a Multi-Vehicle Crash in Ukiah, CA
If you're involved in a pile-up, stay inside your vehicle if it's not safe to exit, and turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers. Check yourself and passengers for injuries before moving, since adrenaline can mask pain from impacts. Call 911 even if damage looks minor, and let dispatchers know if anyone is trapped or needs extrication. Once you're safe, get checked by a medical provider, because injuries like whiplash or internal bruising don't always show symptoms right away. Keep a copy of the CHP or local police report for your records, and photograph the scene if you're able to do so safely.
