Newport Beach, CA (January 23, 2026) – A violent wrong-way crash on State Route 73 left three people seriously injured on Friday, January 23, in Newport Beach, Orange County. Authorities said the accident happened after reports of a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction on the toll road.
Investigators received initial calls around 8:05 p.m. about a car moving northbound in the southbound lanes near Greenfield Drive in Laguna Niguel. Witnesses said the vehicle was traveling at high speeds as it continued along Route 73.
Additional reports placed the same vehicle near El Toro Road just minutes later. Callers described the car as moving extremely fast before the situation escalated further. Authorities tracked the reports as the wrong-way driver continued through the area.
At approximately 8:16 p.m., the vehicle crashed into another car south of Bonita Canyon Drive in Newport Beach. The two-car collision caused severe injuries and prompted a large emergency response. Emergency units arrived and focused on helping those hurt in the crash.
Three people were taken to nearby hospitals with major injuries. Officials have not released details about the victims’ identities or their current conditions. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the accident.
Our thoughts are with those injured as they receive care and work toward recovery.
Why Wrong-Way Crashes in Newport Beach Can Cause Severe Injuries
Wrong-way accidents in Newport Beach tend to cause serious harm because vehicles often meet head-on at high speeds. When drivers travel against traffic, there is little time to react or slow down. These crashes also happen on highways, where speed limits are higher, and traffic flows steadily, increasing the risk of major injury when a collision occurs.
People involved in wrong-way crashes may face a wide range of injuries. Common outcomes include head injuries, broken bones, chest trauma, and internal injuries. Some people notice pain right away, while others feel symptoms hours later. Medical visits help document injuries and identify issues that may need follow-up care or ongoing treatment.
An auto accident lawyer can help explain options after this type of accident. Legal guidance may include reviewing medical records, insurance paperwork, and crash reports. An attorney can also explain how claims may work and what types of compensation could be available, depending on the situation. This support can help you understand your next steps and options.
At Saleh Law Group, we help crash victims understand their options after a crash involving serious injuries. Our team has years of experience reviewing all sorts of complex car accident cases and explaining how medical bills, insurance communication, and documentation may apply.
If you want clear information about your situation, you can speak with our legal team to discuss your available options after your accident. To learn more, contact Saleh Law Group at 949-431-6371 today.
