SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. —
Update: The highway was reopened around 1 p.m., according to the California Highway Patrol.
A crash on Highway 1 closed the busy highway north of Santa Cruz on Sunday around 12:25 p.m.
According to the California Highway Patrol, a two-vehicle crash on Highway 1 near Scotts Creek has closed the roadway. This is about 13 miles north of the city of Santa Cruz.
Highway 1 in Santa Cruz County has officially reopened after a two-vehicle collision that caused significant traffic delays earlier today. The accident, which occurred around mid-morning, prompted a swift response from local emergency services and raised concerns about safety on this busy coastal route.
Emergency services arrived on the scene quickly, assessing the situation and providing assistance to the occupants of both vehicles. Paramedics transported one driver to a local hospital for evaluation, while the other involved in the crash declined medical treatment at the scene. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, but both vehicles were deemed inoperable.
In the immediate aftermath of the accident, Caltrans and local law enforcement officials closed a portion of Highway 1 to facilitate the cleanup and investigation. Traffic was diverted to nearby routes, leading to significant congestion in the area. Commuters were advised to seek alternative routes while crews worked diligently to clear the scene and restore normal traffic flow.
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Witnesses reported heavy traffic as motorists attempted to navigate detours, with some delays extending for over an hour. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) worked closely with Caltrans to manage the situation, providing updates through social media and traffic advisories.
After several hours of cleanup and investigation, Highway 1 was reopened to traffic shortly after 2 PM. Crews had cleared the wreckage and ensured that the roadway was safe for drivers. The CHP reminded motorists to remain cautious as traffic began to flow again, urging everyone to adhere to posted speed limits and stay alert.
The reopening of Highway 1 brought relief to many commuters and local residents who had been affected by the road closure. Social media platforms were filled with updates and comments from frustrated drivers eager to resume their journeys.
The California Highway Patrol – https://www.chp.ca.gov/home
Local authorities used this incident as an opportunity to emphasize the importance of safe driving practices, especially on busy highways. The CHP reiterated their commitment to monitoring the area and addressing any safety concerns that may arise.
As the investigation into the cause of the collision continues, authorities are urging witnesses to come forward with any additional information that could assist in understanding the circumstances surrounding the accident.
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In the meantime, drivers are encouraged to stay informed about road conditions and any potential delays, particularly in busy traffic areas like Highway 1. The CHP is also advocating for ongoing safety education to help reduce the risk of future accidents.
With the highway now open, the Santa Cruz County community can return to normalcy, but officials remind everyone to remain vigilant on the roads. Safe driving is a shared responsibility, and each motorist plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of all travelers.
One-way traffic control is expected to be set up by 1 p.m., the CHP tweeted Sunday. Minor injuries were reported in the crash, according to the CHP.
