Fatal San Mateo–Hayward Bridge Crash Highlights the Dangers of Distracted Driving

A fatal crash on the San Mateo–Hayward Bridge last week is a stark reminder of how quickly distracted driving can turn deadly on busy Bay Area roadways.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on Tuesday, January 20, and involved a Ford Transit utility van and a Kia sedan.

CHP said the driver of the Ford Transit van was traveling at an unknown speed when he became distracted by his cellular phone and looked away from the road. When he returned his attention to the roadway, he saw a stalled Kia sedan directly in front of him. Despite efforts to avoid a collision, the van struck the sedan.

The driver of the Kia, 54-year-old Mary Hurtado Duran, was pronounced dead at the scene by firefighters.

The van’s driver sustained major injuries and was transported to Stanford Hospital. CHP has not released updates regarding his condition.

Authorities have stated that no alcohol or drugs are suspected to have contributed to the crash. Any potential charges will be determined after the investigation is completed.

Distracted Driving and Roadway Safety

As investigators continue to examine the circumstances of the crash, information released by the California Highway Patrol highlights a familiar and ongoing roadway safety concern related to distracted driving.

Even a brief moment when a driver is not paying attention can significantly delay reaction time to sudden hazards, including stalled vehicles or unexpected traffic conditions. On heavily traveled bridges like the San Mateo–Hayward Bridge, where traffic can change quickly, those seconds can have irreversible consequences.

California’s hands-free driving law, often referred to as the state’s “no phone touch” law, was created to address the very risks highlighted in crashes like this one. The law prohibits drivers from holding a phone while operating a vehicle, even just to glance at a map or screen.

For some families, incidents like this raise questions about what comes next.

At Gomerman | Bourn & Associates, we represent individuals and families in personal injury matters throughout Northern California. If you or someone you know has been seriously injured in a car crash and has questions about their situation, we’re available to help explain potential options. Contact us today or give us a call at 415-545-8608 for a free, no-obligation consultation.