Petaluma, CA – On the evening of Wednesday, February 11, 2026, a single-vehicle traffic collision resulted in fatal injuries, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 8:43 PM on US Highway 101 South near the Petaluma Boulevard South off-ramp.
Evidence indicates that the collision involved a vehicle that went off the road, traveling approximately 30 yards down an embankment, where it overturned. The incident was reported by a passing motorist who informed authorities that the vehicle was being operated at what appeared to be an unsafe speed immediately prior to the crash.
The California Highway Patrol and emergency medical services were quickly dispatched to the scene. Due to the severity of injuries, the Sonoma Sheriff’s Department was also contacted.
Authorities requested an evidence tow to remove the damaged vehicle, which was noted to have sustained a flat tire likely caused by impacting a cable barrier or guardrail. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) was notified to assist with traffic control and any necessary road maintenance following the incident on the southbound lanes of US 101.
No further details regarding the identity of the deceased or the specific cause of the single-vehicle crash have been released by authorities at this time.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages through a Wrongful Death Claim.
