Palo Alto, CA – Woman Killed in 4-Car Crash on Hwy 101

Palo Alto, CA (August 13, 2025) – A woman lost her life and a man was taken into custody for DUI after a four-vehicle collision unfolded early Sunday morning on Highway 101 near Palo Alto. The incident began just after 2 a.m. on August 10 and quickly turned into a deadly chain-reaction crash.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the pileup started when the driver of a white Acura SUV rear-ended a gray Toyota RAV4. The impact left both vehicles disabled in the northbound lanes of the highway, just south of University Avenue. Moments later, a white Subaru SUV driven by a woman struck the disabled Toyota, then veered into the concrete center divider.

Soon after, a male driver operating a gray BMW sedan collided with one of the involved vehicles, further escalating the crash. CHP reported that one of the drivers involved was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. The identity of the woman killed in the crash has not yet been released.

Emergency medical crews responded quickly, but despite their efforts, the woman succumbed to her injuries. Multiple other drivers sustained injuries, though their current conditions have not been made public. Traffic was heavily impacted as investigators processed the scene and cleared the debris.

We extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones of the woman who lost her life in this heartbreaking incident.

Car Accidents in California

California continues to report high numbers of highway accidents each year. With a population over 39 million and countless daily commuters, the state sees thousands of car crashes annually. In 2023, more than 3,500 traffic fatalities were recorded statewide. High-speed travel, impaired driving, and heavy congestion contribute to the risk.

This multi-vehicle crash highlights key concerns that many drivers face in the aftermath of an accident:

• DUI-Related Collisions: Impaired drivers remain a major threat on California roads. Alcohol and drug impairment slows reaction time and affects judgment, leading to avoidable tragedies.
• Highway Hazards: Freeway collisions often involve high speeds, making them especially dangerous. Broken-down vehicles in active lanes can trigger multi-car pileups in seconds.
• Multiple Vehicle Involvement: When more than two vehicles are involved, determining fault can become complex. Police reports and witness accounts are essential in sorting out liability.
• Wrongful Death Claims: Families who lose a loved one in a crash may have legal grounds to pursue a wrongful death attorney. These claims can help cover funeral costs, loss of companionship, and more.
• Investigation and Evidence: Quick action after a crash is vital. Photos, videos, and medical documentation can make a significant difference in building a case.

Anyone affected by a serious crash should consider consulting with a legal team for guidance.

Ziff & Cohn offers more than 70 years of combined experience representing victims across the Bay Area. From San Francisco to Palo Alto and San Jose, our attorneys provide hands-on service and a deep understanding of personal injury law. We carefully prepare each case as if it will go to trial, and our firm has secured numerous seven-figure settlements. Harvey Ziff and Adrienne Cohn are committed to helping families get through difficult times with care and clarity. Whether negotiating a fair settlement or standing up in court, we are here to help. Call us at (650) 329–0851 today for a free consultation.

Notes: Our writers created this accident news post based on information gathered from various external sources, including local and national news outlets, police reports, and occasionally eyewitness accounts of accidents. If you find any inaccuracies in this post, please contact Ziff & Cohn so we can correct the information as soon as possible. We will remove this post upon request.

Disclaimer: This post is not a solicitation for business and should not be considered legal advice. It does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes depend on the specific details of each case. For tailored legal advice, we encourage you to contact Ziff & Cohn directly. Please note that the featured image in this post is for illustrative purposes only and is not associated with the actual accident.