Two Drivers Critically Injured in Head-On Crash on State Route 70 Bridge Near Oroville

Head-On Crash Leaves Two Drivers Critically Injured on State Route 70 Near Oroville

Two Drivers Critically Injured in Head-On Crash on State Route 70 Bridge Near Oroville from a collision early Friday morning, February 13, 2026, at the West Branch Bridge in Butte County. The crash, reported at approximately 5:06 a.m., involved a Ford Maverick and a converted Ford box truck. Both vehicles sustained major front-end damage, and debris was scattered across the bridge, which spans a branch of Lake Oroville.

Officers from the California Highway Patrol Oroville area responded to the scene. Each vehicle had one occupant, and emergency medical aid was provided. Both drivers were transported to a local hospital in critical condition.

Authorities implemented one-way traffic control on the bridge while crews managed the scene and began their investigation. Motorists traveling through the area experienced delays and were advised to proceed with caution. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Safety Tips for Driving on Bridges and Rural Highways

Bridges and narrow rural highways present unique hazards, especially during early morning hours when visibility may be limited. Drivers can reduce the risk of serious collisions by:

• Reducing speed when approaching bridges, curves, or narrow roadways
• Staying centered in your lane and avoiding distractions
• Increasing following distance and being alert for oncoming traffic
• Using headlights during low-light conditions, including early morning or fog
• Exercising extra caution on elevated roadways where there is little room for error

Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of crashes, and maintaining full attention behind the wheel is critical to preventing these high-impact incidents.

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 After a Serious Crash Matters

Head-on collisions often result in catastrophic injuries and complex liability issues. An experienced personal injury attorney can conduct a thorough investigation, obtain crash reports, analyze vehicle damage and roadway conditions, and work with accident reconstruction experts when necessary. Legal representation can also help protect you from insurance company tactics and pursue full compensation for medical expenses, long-term care needs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Having a knowledgeable advocate allows injured victims and their families to focus on recovery while their legal rights are protected.

Get Help from Ed Smith – Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a crash, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The Law Offices of Ed Smith have decades of experience helping Northern California accident victims recover physically, emotionally, and financially. Our team works with medical professionals, investigators, and financial experts to build strong claims and pursue the maximum compensation available.

We understand how overwhelming a critical injury can be. That’s why we offer free, friendly advice and work on a contingency fee basis—there are no upfront costs, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Whether your accident involved severe injuries, long-term treatment, or complex liability, we are here to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.
Call (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 today