Full Breakdown
Overturned Vehicles Shut Down Multiple Lanes on Los Angeles I-405
8/14/2026, 2:57:35 AM
Incident Overview
During the Thursday morning rush hour, two vehicles overturned on the northbound lanes of Interstate 405 near Santa Monica Boulevard in West Los Angeles. The crash was reported shortly before 7:30 a.m., prompting the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to issue a SigAlert shortly after 8 a.m. The overturned cars blocked lanes 4, 5, and 6, creating a significant backup that extended behind the scene as drivers attempted to exit the freeway.
Traffic Impact and Response
The blockage caused a major traffic jam on the 405, a key north-south corridor that continues from the Westwood area toward the Sepulveda Pass. Video from local news outlet KTLA showed vehicles stacking up behind the wreckage. Caltrans advised motorists to use an alternate northbound route via Sepulveda Boulevard, then re-enter I-405 at Moraga Drive. Emergency crews worked to clear the scene, and the SigAlert remained in effect for at least 30 minutes before being extended at about 8:30 a.m.
Official Agency Actions
The CHP confirmed that at least one person involved declined transport to a hospital and that it was not immediately clear whether any serious injuries occurred. The agency has not released information on citations or arrests related to the collision. Under CHP policy, SigAlerts are issued for unplanned events that could delay a large number of motorists for at least 30 minutes, including collisions, spills, flooding, and unexpected congestion.
Aftermath and Current Status
The lanes affected by the Thursday morning crash were eventually cleared and reopened to traffic. No further details on the cause of the overturning have been provided, and the CHP has not announced any ongoing investigations. Motorists traveling northbound on I-405 were urged to remain alert to possible residual congestion as normal flow resumed.
