San Jose, CA – Fatal Single-Car Accident on Highway 101 Near Lawrence Expressway Claims One Life
San Jose, CA – A tragic car accident on December 28, 2025, claimed the life of one individual on Highway 101 in San Jose. The incident occurred around 12:35 p.m. on the northbound lanes of the highway at the Lawrence Expressway interchange. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the driver was heading north on US 101 when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle veered off the roadway. The car then slammed into the right-hand side wall, causing the fatal crash. Emergency responders, including troopers and fire crews, quickly arrived at the scene, but despite their efforts, the individual was confirmed dead about two hours later. At this time, the identity of the deceased has not been publicly released.
The accident caused significant traffic disruptions in the area. Several right lanes of northbound Highway 101 were blocked for nearly two hours as emergency crews worked to clear the scene and conduct their investigation. The California Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the incident to determine what led to the crash. While details are scarce, authorities suspect that the cause may involve a loss of control, although no definitive conclusions have been made yet. The CHP’s investigation will hopefully provide further clarity on the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
This tragic event underscores ongoing concerns about traffic safety in San Jose, which has faced significant challenges with road fatalities in recent years. In 2022, the city recorded its deadliest year in recent history, with 65 fatalities, though this number dropped to 49 in 2023. However, 2024 showed an increase in traffic deaths compared to the previous year, and as of December 2025, there have been at least 38 fatalities. San Jose’s traffic statistics reveal that a large number of fatalities involve pedestrians and cyclists, especially in incidents where pedestrians are struck by vehicles. The city’s high rate of rear-end, sideswipe, and broadside collisions – combined with speeding and hit-and-run incidents – points to a pressing need for improved road safety measures.
In response to these concerning trends, San Jose has implemented the “Vision Zero” initiative, a program designed to reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries. The initiative focuses on analyzing data, identifying high-risk areas, and making infrastructure improvements to increase safety. These areas, known as Priority Safety Corridors, have been marked for increased attention and measures to prevent accidents. While the investigation into the December 28 accident continues, the city remains committed to addressing the broader issues contributing to traffic fatalities and ensuring safer roads for all residents.