(Oceanside, CA) At least one person was killed Saturday afternoon, January 17, after a flatbed tow truck collided with a sedan in a San Diego Freeway crash on Interstate 5.
The California Highway Patrol said officers responded around 2:36 p.m. to the northbound San Diego (5) Freeway. When first responders arrived, they found a flatbed tow truck and a sedan stopped near the center divider with heavy damage.
CHP confirmed that one person died at the scene. Authorities did not release the victim’s name, age, or gender. Officers did not report any other injuries, and officials said paramedics did not transport anyone else to a hospital. The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office was notified and responded to the location.
Investigators did not immediately release details about how the collision occurred or which vehicle struck the other. CHP did not say whether speed, lane changes, or mechanical issues played a role in the collision.
The collision caused major traffic disruptions along northbound Interstate 5. CHP issued a SigAlert at 3:02 p.m., closing lanes one and two. Lane two reopened at 4:16 p.m., and all lanes reopened by 5:57 p.m., according to CHP.
Understanding the San Diego Freeway Crash
When a fatal collision occurs on a major freeway involving commercial equipment, investigators review traffic safety laws to understand what factors may have contributed, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews focus on speed, lane positioning, and driver awareness in high-speed environments.
Because the vehicles came to rest near the center divider, investigators may examine the Unsafe Lane Change Law. This law requires drivers to ensure a lane change or movement can be made with reasonable safety before proceeding. Freeway traffic near rest areas often involves merging and lane shifts, which can increase risk when spacing is limited.
Authorities may also review the Basic Speed Law. This law requires drivers to travel at speeds reasonable for traffic, visibility, and roadway conditions. Even when traffic flows freely, speed that is unsafe for conditions can reduce reaction time and increase the severity of a collision.
If following distance becomes a concern, investigators could consider the Following Too Closely Law. This law requires drivers to maintain adequate space to stop safely. On Interstate 5, sudden slowdowns or unexpected obstacles can quickly lead to severe crashes when vehicles travel too close together. These statutes help guide the review of what may have led to the San Diego Freeway crash as investigators continue their work.
Help for the Family
If you have lost a loved one in a sudden freeway collision, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and request the official collision report when it becomes available.
You may also consider speaking with a legal professional experienced in fatal freeway crashes to better understand your options. Emotional support is important after unexpected loss, and leaning on family members, friends, or grief counseling resources can help during a very difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
