Two-Vehicle Crash at I-5/SR-12 in Stockton

Two-Vehicle Crash with Reported Injuries at I-5 and SR-12 in Stockton

Overview of the Incident

On Tuesday afternoon, December 30, 2025, a two-vehicle collision occurred at the interchange of Interstate 5 (I-5) and State Route 12 (SR-12) in Stockton, California. According to preliminary information shared with the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash was reported at approximately 3:47 p.m. and involved two Chevrolet SUVs—one gray and one blue. Initial statements indicate that the driver of the gray SUV reported being forced off the side of the roadway by the other vehicle. Both vehicles ultimately came to rest in the center divider.

Emergency personnel, including paramedics and law enforcement, responded promptly. One or more individuals sustained injuries and received medical treatment at the scene. It has not been confirmed whether any injured parties were transported to a hospital. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision and the sequence of events that led to the impact.

Location and Traffic Conditions

The I-5/SR-12 interchange is a heavily traveled area serving San Joaquin County commuters, intercity travelers, and commercial traffic. Interchanges like this one often feature frequent lane changes, merge points, and speed differentials, which can increase the risk of sideswipe collisions, rear-end impacts, and loss-of-control incidents. Even minor driver inattention during a lane change or merge can have serious consequences, particularly when traffic volumes are high or when visibility is reduced by congestion, glare, or roadway curvature.

Emergency Response and Reported Injuries

Following the crash, CHP units arrived on scene, and paramedics evaluated those involved for injuries. When collisions occur in center dividers, responders must often navigate live traffic on both sides, which can complicate scene safety and slow clearance. While some injuries may seem minor at first, symptoms of concussions, whiplash, or internal trauma can emerge hours or days later. This is why it is common for first responders to recommend medical evaluation even if victims feel “fine” immediately after a crash.

Status of the Investigation

As of this update, official findings regarding fault have not been released. Investigators typically review physical evidence such as tire marks, debris fields, vehicle damage patterns, and center-divider impact points. They also consider dashcam footage (if available), traffic camera recordings, and statements from drivers and witnesses. Depending on the facts, issues that can arise in similar incidents include:

- Unsafe lane changes or turning movements
- Failure to maintain a lane
- Following too closely or speeding
- Distraction or impaired driving
- Mechanical failures contributing to loss of control

It is important to avoid assumptions about fault until the investigation is complete. In California, multiple parties can share responsibility under the state’s comparative negligence rules, which apportion fault by percentage based on the evidence.

Common Causes of Crashes at Major Interchanges

High-volume interchanges like I-5 and SR-12 present several known risk factors:

- Frequent merging and weaving: Drivers often must cross multiple lanes in a short distance to reach exits or transitions.
- Speed differentials: Vehicles traveling at varying speeds increase the chance of sideswipes or rear impacts when gaps are misjudged.
- Limited reaction time: Sudden braking or lane changes in heavy traffic reduce the margin for error.
- Visual obstructions: Larger vehicles can obscure sightlines, making it harder to gauge nearby traffic.
- Driver distraction: Mobile device use or other distractions can be especially hazardous during merging maneuvers.

What to Do After a Collision in California

If you are involved in a crash, safety and documentation are key:

- Move to safety: If possible, relocate to the shoulder or a safe area to avoid secondary impacts.
- Call 911: Report injuries and hazards; request medical assistance and law enforcement.
- Exchange information: Obtain driver, vehicle, and insurance details for all involved parties.
- Document the scene: Take photos of vehicle positions, damage, visible injuries, skid marks, debris, and the surrounding roadway.
- Identify witnesses: Gather names and contact information for anyone who saw the incident.
- Seek medical attention: Even if symptoms seem minor, a prompt medical evaluation helps protect your health and creates necessary records.
- Avoid recorded statements without counsel: Speak carefully with insurers; consider consulting an attorney before giving detailed statements.
- Obtain the CHP report: A CHP 555 collision report can be critical evidence in claims.

Interchange collisions frequently involve disputed issues such as unsafe lane changes, loss of control, and comparative fault. As CHP continues investigating the I-5 and SR-12 crash, injured parties may need guidance on how California’s negligence rules apply to their situation.

Avian Law Group has experience handling injury claims arising from complex freeway and interchange collisions throughout San Joaquin County. If you were hurt in this crash, our attorneys can review the investigation, assess liability, and help protect your claim. Contact us for a no-obligation case evaluation.