Fatal Multi-Vehicle Pileup on I-5 Near Gilman Road Exit and Shasta Lake

Fatal Multi-Vehicle Pileup on I-5 Near Gilman Road Exit and Shasta Lake

A fatal multi-vehicle pileup on I-5 near the Gilman Road exit and Lake Shasta south of Lakehead occurred shortly after 3:00 p.m. on January 1, 2026.

A sudden hailstorm created dangerous driving conditions that led to a massive chain-reaction crash involving numerous passenger vehicles and several big rigs along Interstate 5 in Lakehead.

The severity of the pileup forced authorities to shut down all lanes of traffic for more than five hours as emergency crews worked to assist victims, investigate the scene, and clear damaged vehicles and debris. The roadway was fully reopened at approximately 8:30 p.m.

Officials have confirmed that at least one person was killed in the crash. The total number of injured individuals and additional details about the victims have not yet been released. The incident remains under investigation.

Driver Safety Tips for Severe Weather Conditions

Sudden weather changes such as hail, heavy rain, or fog can quickly make roadways hazardous. Drivers can reduce their risk by:

• Slowing down and increasing following distance during severe weather
• Avoiding sudden braking or sharp steering maneuvers
• Turning on headlights to improve visibility
• Pulling over safely if visibility or traction becomes dangerously limited
• Remaining especially cautious around large trucks, which require longer stopping distances

Preparing for rapidly changing weather conditions can help prevent chain-reaction collisions.

Check out this video with accident attorney Ed Smith to discover how to select the best injury lawyer for your claim:

Why Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney Matters After a Multi-Vehicle Crash

Multi-vehicle pileups are complex incidents that often involve multiple drivers, commercial vehicles, and insurance companies. Determining liability may require accident reconstruction, review of weather conditions, and analysis of each driver’s actions.

An experienced personal injury attorney can:

• Investigate the crash and identify all responsible parties
• Gather critical evidence, including CHP reports and witness statements
• Handle communications with multiple insurance carriers
• Pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering
• Assist families in wrongful death claims when a fatality occurs

Early legal guidance helps protect your rights and ensures important evidence is preserved.

Contact Ed Smith – Northern California Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one was injured in this Interstate 5 pileup or lost a family member in a serious collision, you may be entitled to compensation. The Law Offices of Ed Smith has decades of experience representing victims of serious and fatal accidents throughout Northern California.

Our team conducts thorough investigations, works with accident reconstruction and safety experts, and aggressively negotiates with insurance companies to seek full and fair compensation for our clients.

For free, friendly advice, call (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400.

There is no fee unless we win your case, and your consultation is always confidential. Let our experienced team help you understand your options and take the next step toward recovery.