By Crash News Writer 
Cottonwood, CA (November 11, 2025) – A driver lost his life late Sunday night in a devastating crash involving a big rig on Interstate 5 near the Cottonwood Scales.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the fatal incident occurred around 11:35 p.m. on November 9. A gray Honda Civic was heading southbound on Interstate 5 when it veered into the Cottonwood Scales lane and slammed into the back of a parked 18-wheeler.
The force of the impact caused the Honda to become wedged under the trailer. The male driver, who was the sole occupant of the car, was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
No other injuries were reported, and the driver of the semi-truck was not in the cab at the time of the crash. Authorities continue to investigate what caused the driver to drift into the scale lane.
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If you’ve lost a loved one in a car accident near Cottonwood, you may have legal grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. In collisions involving commercial vehicles like 18-wheelers, multiple parties—including the truck owner or a government entity—may share liability. Seeking legal representation is vital for families navigating the aftermath of such a tragedy. For helpful information, review the car accident laws in California.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This story is based on preliminary information provided by law enforcement and is subject to updates as the investigation continues. For guidance after a crash, visit our frequently asked questions in California to better understand what to expect.
- The identity of the deceased driver has not been made public as officials work to notify next of kin.
- Investigators are working to determine whether fatigue, visibility, or mechanical issues played a role in the incident.
- Drivers traveling near the Cottonwood Scales should remain alert for residual slowdowns or investigations in the area.
Additional accident resources in California are available to help victims and families facing the aftermath of serious collisions.
This report is intended solely for informational use and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Consult with a licensed professional for specific concerns. You can read our complete disclaimer here.
If your family has been affected by a fatal crash, speak with a knowledgeable California personal injury lawyer today to explore your legal options.