[05-24-2025] Contra Costa County, CA – Passenger Killed, Drivers Injured in Two-Vehicle Rollover Crash on I-80 Westbound at Potrero Avenue in El Cerrito

One person was killed following a rollover crash involving two vehicles in El Cerrito on Saturday evening, May 24, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 6:11 p.m. on Interstate 80 westbound at Potrero Avenue and involved a black Fiat and a white Mercedes-Benz.

Authorities stated that both drivers sustained minor injuries and were transported to the hospital. The right front passenger of the Fiat suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead following the collision.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and no additional details have been released at this time.

CHP is asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

Consult With Our Car Accident Lawyers In El Cerrito, CA

Being involved in a car accident can bring unexpected challenges, from injuries to dealing with insurance claims and the emotional toll it can take. If you or someone you know has been affected, understanding what steps to take next is crucial for moving forward.

Our car accident lawyers in El Cerrito are available to provide guidance through the legal process. We can help by reviewing the details of your case, gathering important documents, and explaining the available options based on your situation. Having clear information can help you make informed decisions as you navigate this difficult time.

If you’d like more information or want to discuss your case, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form to schedule a free consultation.

What to Do After a Car Accident in El Cerrito, CA

If you’re involved in a car accident, knowing the right steps to take is important for your health, safety, and future decisions. Whether you’re dealing with injuries or helping someone else, here’s what you should do:

1. Check For Injuries And Stay At The Scene
   Start by checking yourself and others for injuries. If you can, move to a safer location, but don’t leave the accident scene. If you can’t move or it would worsen any injuries, stay in place and call for help.
2. Call The Authorities
   Contact the police as soon as possible. They will gather important details, document the scene, and file a report for future reference.
3. Exchange Information
   Get the other driver’s name, contact details, and insurance information. Be sure to note details about the vehicles involved and take pictures of the scene, including damages and license plates.
4. Seek Medical Attention
   Even if your injuries seem minor, seeing a doctor is important. Some injuries may not show up immediately, so getting checked ensures your well-being and helps with documentation for claims.
5. Notify Your Insurance Provider
   Let your insurance company know about the accident as soon as you can. Follow their instructions to file a claim and keep track of all communications.
6. Be Cautious With The Other Party’s Insurance
   The other driver’s insurance company might reach out to you. Avoid sharing too much information or agreeing to anything before understanding your rights.
7. Keep All Documentation
   Collect and organize all documents related to the accident, such as police reports, medical bills, and insurance communication.
8. Consider Legal Advice
   If you’re unsure about the next steps, talking to a lawyer can help clarify your options. A legal professional can explain your rights and guide you through the claims process.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

According to early estimates from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatalities declined for the fifth consecutive quarter in the first half of 2023. It is estimated that 19,515 people died in motor vehicle crashes, a 3.3% decrease from 20,190 fatalities during the same period in 2022. This decrease in deaths occurred in both the first and second quarters of 2023.

Preliminary data also shows that vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in the first half of 2023 increased by approximately 35.1 billion miles, or 2.3%, compared to the same period in 2022. Despite the rise in miles driven, the number of traffic fatalities fell, leading to a lower fatality rate of 1.24 deaths per 100 million VMT, down from the projected rate of 1.31 deaths per 100 million VMT.