Driver Watching YouTube Crashes Into CHP Patrol Car on Highway 101

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A driver who was allegedly watching YouTube videos on his phone crashed into a California Highway Patrol car last week on Highway 101 in San Mateo, narrowly missing an officer who was standing beside the vehicle, authorities said. The collision happened as officers were responding to a previous three-vehicle crash blocking the right lanes of northbound Highway 101.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of distracted driving and the need for greater awareness and enforcement around the use of mobile devices while operating a vehicle. Distracted driving is a major contributor to accidents and can put both drivers and law enforcement at serious risk.

The details

According to the CHP, officers had set out road flares and were working to clear an earlier crash when a white pickup truck drove directly into the flare pattern and struck the rear of a patrol vehicle. One officer had been standing next to the car but was able to move out of the way before the impact. The driver told officers he 'was changing YouTube videos on his phone and didn't see the flares or the patrol vehicle lights.'

• The collision happened at night on Highway 101 in San Mateo.
• The incident occurred last week as CHP officers were responding to a previous three-vehicle crash.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Authorities did not immediately say whether the driver was cited for the incident.