Fairfield, CA – In the early hours of Sunday, January 18, 2026, Interstate 80 saw two collisions near the Cordelia Weigh Station, a wrong-way collision resulting in three fatalities and a separate injury collision, according to KCRA, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol officials reported that the first crash occurred shortly before 2:30 AM and involved two vehicles, a white Dodge Charger occupied by two men and a black Land Rover driven by a woman. All three occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have not confirmed which vehicle was traveling in the wrong direction, though witness accounts described a light-colored sedan driving against traffic prior to the collision.
A second crash occurred nearby shortly after the initial collision. CHP said a black Tesla Model Y and a red Toyota Tacoma were involved. The driver of the Toyota sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The sequence of crashes prompted a full closure of westbound Interstate 80 for approximately five hours as emergency crews, investigators, and tow services responded. Fire and medical personnel assisted at the scene, while Caltrans implemented traffic control measures and issued a SigAlert during the investigation and cleanup process.
CHP stated it is not yet known whether alcohol or drugs were factors in the initial fatal crash. Impairment has been ruled out in the second collision. Investigations into both remain ongoing.
Wrongful Death Claims
Even if a fatal accident doesn’t lead to criminal charges, families who lose a loved one can still file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide support to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income.
Passenger Liability
Driver liability insurance covers both those outside the vehicle and passengers inside. While it can be emotionally difficult to file a Wrongful Death claim against someone close to the victim, the financial challenges after an accident can be overwhelming. As a neutral third party, an experienced personal injury attorney can help navigate these emotional complexities.
Personal Injury Claims & Comparative Negligence
Determining fault in a collision can involve multiple factors, and under California’s Comparative Negligence rule, several parties can share partial responsibility. Should evidence reveal that another party contributed to the injuries, victims may be eligible to file a Personal Injury Claim with the responsible party’s insurance, which can provide compensation for medical bills and lost wages during recovery.
