A Friday morning collision on Highway 13 in Oakland sent at least one person to the hospital after a two-vehicle crash near the Broadway Terrace exit. The November 22, 2025, incident involved a white Nissan SUV and a gray pickup truck, bringing emergency responders to the scene during the morning commute.
The collision occurred in a heavily traveled section of the highway where thousands of East Bay commuters pass through daily on their way to work. Emergency personnel responded swiftly to the scene, providing immediate medical care to injured parties while managing traffic flow through the affected area. The crash serves as a reminder of the dangers that can occur even during routine commutes on familiar roadways.
Details of the Highway 13 Two-Vehicle Crash
The accident occurred at approximately 8:20 a.m. on northbound Highway 13, just south of the Broadway Terrace exit near the intersection of Glenwood Glade and Pinewood Road. According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision involved two vehicles—a white Nissan SUV and a gray pickup truck—that came together under circumstances still being investigated by authorities.
A witness at the scene reported feeling dizzy following the impact, prompting emergency dispatchers to send an ambulance under CHP code 1141, which indicates an injury traffic collision requiring immediate medical response. The complaint of dizziness raised concerns about potential head trauma or other injuries that might not be immediately visible but could indicate serious harm.
Emergency Response and Medical Treatment
Paramedics arrived quickly at the crash site to evaluate the injured party and provide necessary medical care. Emergency medical technicians assessed the witness who reported dizziness, checking for signs of concussion, whiplash, or other collision-related injuries. Dizziness after a car accident can signal various medical conditions, from minor shock to more serious traumatic brain injuries, making prompt medical evaluation essential.
Both vehicles remained at the scene while emergency responders worked to secure the area and ensure all involved parties received appropriate attention. The California Highway Patrol managed traffic control during the incident, though the collision did cause brief delays for northbound Highway 13 travelers during the Friday morning commute.
Traffic Impact and Scene Clearance
The crash created temporary disruptions along northbound Highway 13 near Broadway Terrace as first responders attended to the injured person and investigated the circumstances of the collision. Officials worked efficiently to provide medical assistance while ensuring the safety of passing motorists. The roadway was cleared once emergency personnel confirmed that the area was safe for normal traffic flow and that all necessary preliminary investigative work had been completed.
Highway 13, officially known as the Warren Freeway, serves as a vital connector between Interstate 580 and State Route 24 in the Oakland Hills area. The stretch near Broadway Terrace sees heavy commuter traffic, particularly during morning and evening rush hours. Any incident along this corridor can create significant backups as the highway serves thousands of daily commuters traveling through the East Bay.
Understanding California Highway Collision Investigations
When accidents occur on California highways, the California Highway Patrol conducts thorough investigations to determine causation and establish whether any traffic violations contributed to the crash. These investigations typically examine multiple factors, including driver behavior, road conditions, vehicle maintenance, weather conditions, and potential mechanical failures.
Investigators will likely review several aspects of this Highway 13 collision, including whether either driver was speeding, distracted, or impaired; if visibility or road conditions played a role; whether either vehicle had mechanical issues; and if traffic patterns or congestion contributed to the accident. The CHP may also interview witnesses, examine physical evidence at the scene, and review any available camera footage from nearby traffic monitoring systems.
Common Causes of Highway Accidents in Oakland
Highway accidents in the Oakland area can result from a variety of factors. Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of collisions on California highways, with drivers using mobile phones, adjusting GPS systems, or engaging in other activities that take their attention from the road. The morning commute, when this Highway 13 accident occurred, is a particularly high-risk time as drivers may be rushing to work, drinking coffee, or otherwise dividing their attention.
Speed is another significant factor in highway collisions. Even when drivers are traveling at or near the speed limit, the high speeds on highways leave little room for error when unexpected situations arise. Following too closely, a practice known as tailgating, reduces the time available to react to sudden stops or slowdowns ahead.
Weather conditions, though not mentioned as a factor in this particular incident, frequently contribute to Oakland-area highway accidents. Morning fog is common in the East Bay, particularly in the hills where Highway 13 runs, which reduces visibility and makes road surfaces slippery. Even light rain can create hazardous conditions after extended dry periods, as oil and debris on the roadway create slick surfaces.
Mechanical failures, including brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, and steering system issues, can also lead to serious highway accidents. Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial in preventing such failures, but even well-maintained vehicles can still experience unexpected mechanical problems.
Injuries Common in Highway Collisions
Highway accidents often result in more severe injuries than lower-speed collisions due to the forces involved at higher speeds. Even when vehicles are traveling at moderate highway speeds, the impact can cause significant trauma to occupants.
Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, are common in highway accidents. The dizziness reported by the witness in this Highway 13 crash could indicate a concussion or other head trauma. These injuries may not always be immediately apparent but can have serious long-term consequences if not correctly diagnosed and treated.
Whiplash and other neck injuries frequently occur when vehicles are struck from behind or from the side, causing the head to snap forward and back rapidly. These soft tissue injuries can cause chronic pain and require extended treatment, including physical therapy, pain management, and sometimes surgical intervention.
Back and spinal cord injuries represent some of the most serious outcomes of highway accidents. The force of impact can damage vertebrae, herniate discs, or injure the spinal cord itself, potentially resulting in temporary or permanent paralysis, chronic pain, and loss of sensation or mobility.
Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbone, commonly result from the impact forces in highway collisions. Even with modern safety features like airbags and crumple zones, the forces involved in highway-speed crashes can easily exceed the tolerance levels of human bones.
Internal injuries, including damage to organs, internal bleeding, and abdominal trauma, pose serious risks in highway accidents. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not quickly identified and treated.
Legal Rights After a Highway Accident in California
California law provides injured accident victims with the necessary rights and remedies when another party’s negligence causes a collision. Understanding these rights is essential for anyone injured in a highway accident.
California operates under a fault-based system for traffic accidents, meaning the driver responsible for causing the collision is liable for resulting injuries and damages. Injured parties may pursue compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance company or, if necessary, through a personal injury lawsuit.
Under California Civil Code Section 1714, drivers owe a duty of reasonable care to others on the road. When a driver breaches this duty through negligent behavior—such as distracted driving, speeding, or failing to maintain proper control of their vehicle—and that breach causes an accident resulting in injuries, the driver may be held liable for all resulting damages.
California also follows a pure comparative negligence rule under Civil Code Section 1431.2, which means that even if an injured person bears some responsibility for an accident, they may still recover damages reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a jury determines that a plaintiff was 20% at fault for an accident and 80% of the fault lies with the defendant, the plaintiff can still recover 80% of their total damages.
Types of Compensation Available to Injured Accident Victims
Victims injured in highway accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, collectively known as damages. Economic damages cover tangible financial losses, including medical expenses for emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and other necessary healthcare services.
These damages also include lost wages for time missed from work during recovery, as well as lost earning capacity if injuries prevent a return to previous employment. Property damage compensation covers the cost to repair or replace vehicles damaged in the collision, as well as personal property inside the cars at the time of the crash.
Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses that don’t have a specific dollar value but significantly impact the quality of life. These include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disfigurement or disability.
In cases involving particularly egregious conduct, such as drunk driving or intentional recklessness, California law permits the award of punitive damages, designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior by others.
The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention After an Accident
Anyone involved in a traffic accident should seek medical evaluation as soon as possible, even if they don’t believe they’ve been seriously injured. Many serious injuries, including head trauma, internal bleeding, and soft tissue damage, may not produce immediate symptoms but can cause serious complications if left untreated.
The witness in this Highway 13 collision, who reported dizziness, made the right decision in seeking medical attention. Dizziness can indicate a concussion, internal bleeding, shock, or other severe conditions requiring immediate treatment. Even when symptoms seem minor, a medical evaluation can help identify hidden injuries and create necessary documentation that links any injuries to the accident.
Delaying medical treatment can also harm a potential personal injury claim. Insurance companies often argue that gaps in treatment indicate injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident in question. Seeking immediate medical care creates a clear record connecting injuries to the collision and demonstrates that the injured party took their health seriously.
Steps to Take After a Highway Accident
Knowing what to do in the aftermath of a highway accident can protect both health and legal rights. First and foremost, ensure safety by moving to a safe location if possible and calling 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance for anyone injured.
Exchange information with other involved drivers, including names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information. Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. These photos can provide valuable evidence later.
Obtain contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident occur. Witness testimony can be crucial in establishing how the collision happened, particularly when the drivers provide conflicting accounts.
Report the accident to your insurance company promptly, but be careful about providing detailed statements before consulting with an attorney. Insurance adjusters may use your words against you to minimize your claim value.
Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, including visits to emergency rooms, doctors, specialists, physical therapists, and any other healthcare providers. Save all bills, receipts, and documentation related to the accident and your injuries.
Avoid discussing the accident on social media, as insurance companies and defense attorneys often search social media profiles for information they can use to devalue or deny claims.
Why Highway 13 Presents Unique Safety Challenges
Highway 13 presents particular challenges that contribute to accident risk. The highway runs through the Oakland Hills, featuring numerous curves, elevation changes, and limited sight distances that require constant attention from the driver. During commute hours, traffic volume increases substantially, creating congestion that can lead to sudden stops and rear-end collisions.
The highway’s design, with relatively short on-ramps and off-ramps, requires drivers to merge and exit quickly, creating potential conflict points where accidents can occur. The Broadway Terrace exit, near where this accident happened, is one such location where drivers must navigate lane changes and speed adjustments over a short distance.
Morning sun glare can also affect visibility on specific stretches of Highway 13, particularly during fall and winter months when the sun is lower on the horizon during commute times. Drivers heading north in the morning may face direct sunlight in their eyes, reducing their ability to see vehicles ahead or changes in traffic conditions.
California Highway Patrol Investigation Process
The California Highway Patrol conducts professional investigations into traffic collisions on state highways. CHP officers document the scene through photographs, measurements, and diagrams that capture vehicle positions, skid marks, debris fields, and other physical evidence.
Officers interview all involved parties and witnesses to gather accounts of how the accident occurred. These statements help investigators piece together the sequence of events leading to the collision.
In some cases, particularly when injuries are severe or fatalities occur, CHP may call in specialized accident reconstruction experts who use scientific methods to analyze physical evidence and determine factors such as vehicle speeds, braking distances, and impact forces.
The investigation findings may result in traffic citations if officers determine that a driver violated California Vehicle Code provisions. These citations can serve as evidence of negligence in subsequent civil claims, though they are not conclusive proof of liability.
How GJEL Accident Attorneys Can Help Highway Accident Victims
When you’ve been injured in a highway accident through no fault of your own, having experienced legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. GJEL Accident Attorneys has served California accident victims for decades, securing over $1 billion in compensation for our clients.
Our attorneys understand the complexities of highway accident cases, including the investigation process, insurance company tactics, and the full range of damages available to injured victims. We handle all aspects of your claim, from investigating the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking your case to trial.
Highway accidents often result in life-changing injuries that affect not just the victim but their entire family. GJEL has seen firsthand how a serious collision can derail someone’s career, strain their finances, and cause lasting physical and emotional trauma. Our job is to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure the compensation our clients need to rebuild their lives.
We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and no financial risk to you. This “no win, no fee” structure ensures that everyone has access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
Understanding Your Settlement Options
After a highway accident, injured victims typically have several options for pursuing compensation. The first step usually involves filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. California requires all drivers to carry a minimum liability insurance policy, although many drivers opt for higher limits or additional coverage types.
Insurance negotiations can be complex, as adjusters work to minimize payouts and protect their company’s financial interests. They may offer quick settlements that seem attractive but often fall short of fully covering the extent of injuries and damages. Once you accept a settlement and sign a release, you typically cannot pursue additional compensation later, even if your injuries prove more serious than initially apparent.
If insurance negotiations don’t result in fair compensation, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary. California’s statute of limitations generally gives accident victims two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit, though certain circumstances can extend or shorten this deadline.
Litigation involves a more formal process, including discovery where both sides exchange information and evidence, depositions where parties and witnesses provide sworn testimony, and potentially a trial where a jury decides the outcome. Many cases settle even after a lawsuit is filed, as litigation clarifies the strength of each side’s position and provides additional incentive for reasonable settlement negotiations.
The Role of Insurance Companies in Highway Accident Claims
Insurance companies play a central role in highway accident claims; however, it’s essential to remember that insurers are businesses focused on profitability. They achieve this partly by paying out as little as possible on claims.
Common insurance company tactics include offering quick, lowball settlements before the full extent of injuries is known; disputing liability by arguing their insured was not at fault or that the injured party shares significant blame; minimizing injuries by claiming they’re not as serious as alleged or weren’t caused by the accident; and delaying the claims process in hopes that financial pressure will force accident victims to accept inadequate settlements.
Understanding these tactics helps accident victims protect their rights and avoid common pitfalls that can reduce their compensation. Having an experienced attorney handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies levels the playing field and ensures that your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
Moving Forward After a Highway Accident
Recovery from a highway accident involves more than just physical healing. The emotional and financial impacts can be equally challenging, creating stress and uncertainty about the future.
Focus on following your doctor’s treatment recommendations completely, even when you start feeling better. Incomplete treatment can both harm your recovery and damage your compensation claim.
Keep detailed records of how your injuries affect your daily life, including activities you can no longer perform, pain levels throughout the day, and emotional challenges you face. This information helps demonstrate the full impact of your injuries.
Be patient with the legal process, as thorough investigation and negotiation take time. Rushing to resolve a claim often results in accepting less compensation than you deserve.
Lean on your support system of family, friends, and professionals who can help you navigate this difficult time. Don’t hesitate to seek counseling or therapy if you’re struggling emotionally with the aftermath of the accident.
Take Action Today – Get the Help You Deserve
“If you were injured in this Highway 13 collision, please know that the dizziness, pain, or trauma you’re experiencing is serious and deserves proper medical attention and legal protection. Highway accidents can be overwhelming—between dealing with injuries, missing work, and facing mounting medical bills, it’s easy to feel lost. California law protects your right to full compensation when another driver’s negligence causes you harm, and you shouldn’t have to navigate this alone. Don’t let insurance companies pressure you into accepting a quick settlement before you understand the true extent of your injuries. At GJEL, we’ve spent decades helping Bay Area accident victims secure the compensation they need to recover fully, and we do it on a no-win, no-fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Your focus should be on healing, not fighting with insurance adjusters. Reach out to us for a free consultation, and let us handle the legal battle while you concentrate on getting better.” — Andy Gillin, Managing Partner, GJEL Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been injured in a highway accident in Oakland or anywhere in the Bay Area, GJEL Accident Attorneys is here to help. We offer free, no-obligation consultations where we’ll review your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
Our experienced team will thoroughly investigate your accident, identify all potential sources of compensation, and work to secure the full financial recovery you deserve. We handle all the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on healing and recovery.
Don’t wait to protect your rights. California law imposes strict deadlines for filing accident claims, and evidence can be lost if action isn’t taken quickly. Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys today to schedule your free consultation.
Remember, we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay no attorney fees unless we win your case. There’s no financial risk to you, and no reason to delay getting the legal help you need.
Let our experienced legal team shoulder the legal burden while you focus on what matters most – your family’s healing and recovery. Contact us today at +1-866-218-3776 or visit our San Jose office to secure your future and compensation.
Local Resources for Oakland Accident Victims
California Highway Patrol – Oakland Area Office Address: 401 Embarcadero, Oakland, CA 94606 Phone: (510) 457-2875 Website: www.chp.ca.gov
The Oakland CHP office is responsible for traffic enforcement and accident investigations on Highway 13 and other state highways in the area.
Oakland Police Department Address: 455 7th Street, Oakland, CA 94607 Non-Emergency Phone: (510) 777-3333 Emergency: 911 Website: www.oaklandca.gov/departments/police-department
Oakland PD responds to accidents on city streets and can provide accident reports and investigation information.
Highland Hospital – Alameda Health System Address: 1411 East 31st Street, Oakland, CA 94602 Emergency Department Phone: (510) 437-4800 Website: www.alamedahealthsystem.org/highland-hospital
Highland Hospital provides emergency and trauma care for serious accident injuries in the Oakland area.
California Department of Motor Vehicles – Oakland Office Address: 5300 Claremont Avenue, Oakland, CA 94618 Phone: 1-800-777-0133 Website: www.dmv.ca.gov
The DMV can provide driver records and vehicle registration information that may be relevant to accident investigations.
Crime Victims/Witness Services – Alameda County District Attorney’s Office Address: 1401 Lakeside Drive, 12th Floor, Oakland, CA 94612 Phone: (510) 272-6222 Website: www.alcoda.org
This office provides support services for victims of crimes, including hit-and-run accidents, and can assist in navigating the criminal justice system.
