A serious accident involving a semi-truck and a Tesla on Interstate 5 near the Sacramento Zoo took place on the morning of February 17, 2026. The crash, reported shortly before 7:50 a.m., occurred in the southbound lanes just north of the Sutterville Road exit, resulting in injuries and substantial traffic delays.
According to the California Highway Patrol, a white Tesla was rear-ended by a semi-truck that was towing a loaded trailer. Although the collision led to injuries, with at least one individual reporting a head injury, the overall impact was classified as minor. Emergency responders arrived promptly at the scene, where multiple lanes of traffic, including both the slow and fast lanes, were obstructed for some time.
Fire crews were dispatched, and heavy-duty tow trucks were called in to clear the semi-truck, which was carrying around 40,000 pounds of cargo. As emergency operations unfolded, damaged vehicles were moved to the Sutterville Road area, and the roadway was cleared after over an hour of significant congestion.
The authorities have not provided additional information regarding the injured individuals and have opened an investigation into the cause of the crash.
To prevent similar rear-end collisions, especially involving large commercial trucks, drivers are reminded to maintain a safe following distance, avoid sudden stops, remain vigilant in congested freeway areas, and ensure their vehicles are well-maintained. It is crucial for all drivers, but particularly for those operating larger vehicles in busy urban settings, to exercise extra caution.
In the context of accidents involving semi-trucks, it’s important to know that such incidents can present complicated legal situations. Liability can involve multiple parties, and those injured in truck accidents are advised to consult with a personal injury attorney to explore their rights and potential compensation for medical expenses and other damages.
As the investigation into this collision continues, it serves as a reminder of the critical importance of road safety and awareness when sharing the highway with commercial vehicles.