Santa Cruz County, CA – On the morning of Thursday, September 4, 2025, a fuel tanker crash injured the driver and caused gasoline to spill, according to KSBW.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the crash took place around 6:45 AM on Highway 17 near Sugarloaf Road.
Authorities said the driver of a big rig fuel tanker lost control and overturned while traveling along the highway, leaving the driver with injuries. Emergency responders treated the injured driver at the scene before arranging additional medical evaluation.
The crash caused gasoline to leak from the overturned tanker, forcing officials to shut down all southbound lanes. By 9:20 AM, CHP diverted southbound traffic into the left lane of northbound Highway 17 and allowed limited passage through the right-hand lane for northbound vehicles.
Medical response teams, firefighters from the Scotts Valley Fire District, and a hazardous materials crew worked alongside CHP to secure the area and limit the dangers of the fuel spill. Authorities said the driver’s injuries could have been more severe given the size of the tanker and the potential fire risk.
The collision created major traffic delays as emergency crews prioritized treating the injured driver, containing the spill, and preventing additional harm to passing motorists. CHP issued a SigAlert and confirmed that the roadway will remain closed for most of the day while crews remove the damaged tanker and continue the cleanup.
Officials have not provided further updates about the driver’s recovery or the cause of the crash.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages.
California Truck Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Truck Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
