[06-30-2025] Calaveras County, CA – Elderly Driver Killed, Another Driver Injured in Head-On Collision on Highway 26 Near Vista Del Lago

A man in his late 70s was killed in a head-on collision on Highway 26 near Valley Springs in Rancho Calaveras, Calaveras County, on Monday afternoon, June 30, 2025.

The California Highway Patrol reported that the crash occurred around 3:45 p.m. just west of Vista Del Lago.

The elderly driver, who was operating a Mitsubishi eastbound on Highway 26, failed to negotiate a turn, crossed into the oncoming westbound lane, and collided head-on with a Ford pickup truck.

The Mitsubishi driver, identified as a Valley Springs resident, died from his injuries at the scene. The Ford truck driver sustained only minor injuries, according to CHP.

The investigation is ongoing.

Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers In Calaveras County

Being involved in a car accident or losing someone in a collision can lead to a difficult and uncertain time. Understanding what to do and how to protect your rights may feel overwhelming without clear guidance.

Our car accident lawyers in Calaveras County are here to help you navigate the legal process. We can assist with reviewing your situation, collecting key information, and helping you understand your legal options moving forward.

If you have questions about your case or would like to speak with someone, call us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have a Case?” form to request a free consultation.

What To Do After A Car Accident

After a car accident, knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in your physical recovery and any legal steps you may consider. If you or a loved one was involved in a crash, here are the steps you can take to protect your well-being and prepare for what comes next.

1. Get Immediate Medical Help
   Always make your health the top priority. Call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. Even if injuries do not seem serious at first, it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional.
2. Let The Police Investigate The Scene
   Law enforcement should be called to the crash site. Officers can assess the situation and write a report that records the basic facts, which may be useful later if you decide to pursue a claim.
3. Record Important Details
   Take photos of the crash scene if it is safe. Try to capture vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and anything else that helps explain what happened. This documentation can support your version of events.
4. Keep Track Of Expenses And Injuries
   Save all records related to your treatment, including doctor visits, medications, and any out-of-pocket costs. These details help show how the accident affected you and may be used in evaluating damages.
5. Avoid Discussing The Incident Publicly
   Refrain from talking about the crash on social media or with others not involved in your case. Anything you say may later be misunderstood or misused by insurance companies.
6. Consult With A Car Accident Lawyer
   A personal injury attorney can help review what happened and provide legal information that is specific to your case. This can include reviewing your medical records, helping gather evidence, and answering your questions about next steps.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

For many years, traffic deaths in the United States had been going down. This was mostly because of better safety features like seat belts, airbags, and stronger rules against drunk driving. However, in the last ten years, that progress has slowed.

In 2020 and 2021, the number of people who died in car accidents went up. In 2021, there were 43,230 deaths from motor vehicle crashes. Out of those, 7,388 were pedestrians.

The following year, in 2022, the number of deaths dropped slightly to 42,514. Even with this small improvement, the total was still 10 percent higher than in 2020. Road safety continues to be an important issue, and efforts to prevent accidents are still in progress.