Fatal Wrong-Way Collision on State Route 70 Near Striplin Road in Sutter County

Fatal Wrong-Way Collision on State Route 70 Near Striplin Road in Sutter County

A deadly wrong-way collision on State Route 70 Near Striplin Road occurred Wednesday evening, January 20, 2026, in Sutter County. A vehicle traveling the wrong way on the highway collided head-on with another car.

Emergency crews responded at approximately 7:26 p.m. after reports of a vehicle moving northbound in southbound lanes near Striplin Road. Preliminary information indicates a white Volkswagen Tiguan traveling the wrong direction collided with a red Toyota Corolla that was traveling southbound.

Tragically, the driver of the Corolla, an adult man, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Tiguan, an adult woman, sustained major injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. An approximately 1-year-old infant inside the Tiguan was also taken to a hospital for evaluation, though their condition has not yet been released.

CHP confirmed that the cause of the crash remains under investigation, and it is unclear whether alcohol, drugs, or other factors contributed. Weather conditions included fog in the area at the time of the collision.

Wrong-Way Driving: A Serious Safety Hazard

Wrong-way collisions are extremely dangerous, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Drivers traveling against traffic may be impaired, distracted, or unfamiliar with the area. Combined with limited visibility, fog, or night driving, the risk of severe crashes increases significantly.

To reduce risks:

• Always drive alert and focused, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions
• Avoid distractions such as mobile phones or in-car technology
• Pay close attention to signage and lane markings to ensure correct travel direction
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Pedestrians and other motorists should also remain vigilant, particularly near highway ramps or high-speed roadways where wrong-way drivers may appear.

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

Why a Sacramento Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

In collisions involving severe injuries or fatalities, families and survivors may face medical expenses, lost income, and long-term financial hardship. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts or question liability.

An experienced Sacramento personal injury attorney can help protect your rights, investigate the crash, and pursue compensation for injuries, medical costs, and other losses.

Ed Smith, founder of AutoAccident.com, has decades of experience helping injured victims throughout Northern California. His team offers free consultations, and clients pay no legal fees unless compensation is recovered.

If you or a loved one was injured in a crash, contact Ed Smith at AutoAccident.com by calling (916) 921-6400 for guidance and support.