Driver Watching YouTube Crashes into California Highway Patrol Vehicle

Distracted driver collides with stopped patrol car in San Mateo, narrowly missing officer

Mar. 10, 2026 at 8:37pm

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A driver in a white pickup truck crashed into the back of a California Highway Patrol vehicle in San Mateo last week while the officer was working to clear a previous accident. The driver told authorities he was watching YouTube videos and did not see the road flares or patrol car lights before the collision, which was captured on the officer's body camera.

Why it matters

Distracted driving continues to be a major public safety issue, with drivers using mobile devices behind the wheel posing a serious risk to themselves, law enforcement, and other motorists. This incident highlights the need for increased education and enforcement around distracted driving laws.

The details

The collision occurred on the night of March 3 on Highway 101 in San Mateo. CHP officers had set up road flares to close the right lanes while clearing a previous three-vehicle accident. An officer noticed the white pickup truck approaching and stepped out of the way just before the truck slammed directly into the back of the patrol vehicle.

  • The collision occurred on the night of March 3, 2026.
  • CHP officers were working to clear a previous three-vehicle accident on Highway 101 at the time.

The players

California Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling California's highways and responding to incidents.

Driver of white pickup truck

A driver who collided with a CHP vehicle while reportedly watching YouTube videos and not paying attention to the road.

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What they’re saying

“Thankfully our officers had great officer safety awareness and were watching oncoming traffic!”

— California Highway Patrol (newsnationnow.com)

What’s next

CHP is using this incident to remind drivers to keep their eyes on the road and avoid distractions like mobile devices while driving.

The takeaway

This crash underscores the ongoing dangers of distracted driving and the need for continued vigilance and enforcement to keep roads safe, both for law enforcement and the general public.