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WOODLAND, Yolo County, Calif., Oct. 16, 2026 — A gray SUV and a big rig traveling without a trailer collided late on Wednesday night, October 14, on northbound Interstate 5 at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bridge, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The crash was reported shortly after 11 p.m. near the midspan of the bridge, just inside Yolo County. Initial reports described a gray Mitsubishi Outlander colliding with a bobtailing tractor unit in the slow lane, creating a traffic hazard for other drivers in the area.
Traffic backed up toward the airport area as crews worked to clear the scene. A dispatcher relayed a question from local authorities about whether injury status had been confirmed and whether a CHP unit remained on scene, suggesting the extent of any injuries was not immediately settled. One lane reportedly remained blocked for a period while responders managed the wreck.
Tow trucks were called to the scene for both vehicles. Reports show at least one request for heavy-duty towing for the three-axle truck, along with a separate request for the SUV, though one tow order was later canceled and reassigned. The CHP closed its incident log entry around 11:15 p.m., though cleanup and towing activity continued afterward.
The CHP has not released the names of those involved or detailed the injuries reported. The cause of the collision remains under investigation.
We hope those who were hurt recover fully and quickly.
More on Crashes in Woodland, CA
This crash happened on Interstate 5 in Woodland, CA. We cover crashes across Yolo County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Yolo County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What typically causes crashes between passenger vehicles and large trucks?
Common factors include following too closely, sudden lane changes, driver fatigue, and reduced visibility at night. Big rigs also have larger blind spots, which can make merging and lane-change situations risky for smaller vehicles nearby.
Does speed make a difference in how serious a crash is?
Yes. Higher speeds increase stopping distance and the force involved in impact, which generally means more serious injuries and more vehicle damage, even in crashes that might otherwise be minor.
Why is distracted driving particularly dangerous on highways?
At highway speeds, a driver's eyes off the road for even a few seconds can mean traveling the length of a football field blind. On bridges or in merge areas with limited shoulder space, that lost reaction time matters even more.
How do road and weather conditions play into crashes like this one?
Nighttime driving reduces visibility, and bridges can have different surface conditions than the roadway leading up to them, including wind exposure and temperature differences that can affect traction.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Woodland, CA
If you're involved in a crash on a highway or bridge, try to move to a safe location if your vehicle is drivable, and turn on hazard lights to warn oncoming traffic. Call 911 to report the collision and request medical evaluation, even if injuries aren't immediately obvious. Adrenaline can mask pain from impacts, especially after a sudden stop or collision with a larger vehicle. Exchange information with the other driver if it's safe to do so, and take photos of the scene, vehicle positions, and any visible damage. Once you're safe, follow up with a doctor in the days after the crash and keep records of any medical visits or vehicle repair estimates for your own reference.
