(San Jose, CA) Three adults were injured, two of them in critical conditions, in a Rancho Drive collision Wednesday evening in San Jose, according to police.
The San Jose Police Department said the crash occurred around 5:30 p.m. on October 8 near Rancho Drive and Monterey Road. When paramedics arrived, they found three people with injuries. Emergency responders transported all three victims to nearby hospitals, where two remain in life-threatening condition.
Monterey Road was closed in both directions from Capitol Expressway to Fehren Drive for several hours as investigators worked to determine what caused the crash. Police issued a traffic advisory on social media urging drivers to avoid the area and use alternate routes.
No additional details about the vehicles involved or the cause of the collision have been released. The investigation remains ongoing.
Overview on the Rancho Drive Collision
Serious multi-vehicle crashes like this often lead investigators to closely examine the cause of the crash. They will review factors such as driver speed, lane control, and roadway conditions. In the Rancho Drive collision, officers will likely assess whether either driver made an unsafe maneuver or drove too fast.
If speed contributed to the crash, the Basic Speed Law would apply. It prohibits driving faster than is safe for current conditions, including traffic flow and visibility. Even when obeying posted limits, drivers must adjust their speed to avoid collisions at intersections and high-traffic areas.
When improper lane movement is suspected, California Vehicle Code 21658 may also be relevant. This law requires motorists to stay within a single lane and only change lanes when it is safe to do so. Violations often occur during heavy congestion or merging, conditions common along Monterey Road during evening hours.
Investigators will continue to analyze these elements to understand what caused the Rancho Drive collision and whether roadway design or driver behavior played the greatest role in this serious crash.
Guidance for the Families
If you are a loved one of one of the victims, you can contact the San Jose Police Department’s Traffic Investigations Unit for updates once the report is available. Hospitals can also connect families with victim support coordinators who help navigate medical and insurance issues after severe collisions.
It may also be wise to reach out to a personal injury attorney familiar with major roadway crashes in Santa Clara County. Taking these steps can help ensure your family receives clear information, proper care, and support throughout the recovery process.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
