A devastating chain-reaction crash involving dozens of vehicles brought traffic to a standstill on Highway 99 in Tulare County, leaving multiple people injured and highlighting the dangers of driving in low-visibility conditions.
What Happened
On the morning of January 31, 2026, emergency crews responded after 59 vehicles collided in both the northbound and southbound lanes of State Route 99 near Avenue 24, roughly 40 miles north of Bakersfield.
Investigators believe dense fog significantly reduced visibility, contributing to the massive pileup.
Authorities reported that at least 10 people were transported to hospitals with injuries described as “minor to moderate,” and fortunately, no deaths were reported.
Initially, officials feared as many as 150 vehicles were involved, but the California Highway Patrol later confirmed the total at 59.
Chaotic Scene and Road Closures
Images and video from the crash site showed heavily damaged vehicles, debris scattered across the roadway, and even cars and trucks breaching the concrete center divider.
The highway was closed in both directions for hours while first responders assisted victims and cleared the wreckage.
CHP officers reported that visibility was limited to approximately 100–200 feet at the time of the crash, underscoring how quickly hazardous weather can create dangerous driving conditions in the Central Valley.
Victims Describe Terrifying Moments
One woman and her mother were trapped inside the pileup while traveling through the area. The daughter suffered head and hip injuries, and her mother sustained a back injury before both were transported to a hospital.
The victim recalled seeing “cars after cars crashing everywhere,” illustrating the frightening and fast-moving nature of chain-reaction collisions.
A Reminder About Tule Fog Risks
Officials say the crash occurred during heavy Central Valley fog, a weather condition known for rapidly lowering visibility and increasing the likelihood of multi-vehicle collisions.
Several people sustained mild to moderate injuries, and some required hospitalization, according to CHP Visalia.
How Nelson, Rozier & Christenson Can Help After a Serious Crash
Multi-vehicle accidents can leave victims facing mounting medical bills, lost income, vehicle damage, and emotional trauma. Determining liability in chain-reaction crashes is often complex, especially when multiple drivers and insurance carriers are involved.
If you or someone you love was injured in a crash in Visalia, Tulare County, or anywhere in California’s Central Valley, the experienced attorneys at Nelson, Rozier & Christenson, Attorneys at Law are ready to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.
Call Today for Trusted Guidance
After a serious collision, timing matters. Evidence can disappear quickly, and insurance companies often begin their investigations immediately.
Contact Nelson, Rozier & Christenson today at 559-713-0159 to schedule a consultation with attorneys Ryan Nelson and Clayton Christenson. Their team is committed to helping Central Valley injury victims navigate the legal process with confidence and compassion.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.