[01-25-2026] Merced County, CA – Three Seriously Injured After DUI Head-On Crash on Highway 140 Near Rogers Rd.

Three people suffered major injuries following a head-on collision in Merced County on Sunday night, January 25, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the two-vehicle crash was reported around 7:29 p.m. on Highway 140 east of Rogers Road.

Authorities said a 46-year-old Merced man was driving a 2011 Toyota Prius eastbound on Highway 140 when, for reasons still under investigation, he crossed over a solid double line into the westbound lane. The Prius collided head-on with a 2011 Nissan Altima traveling westbound at approximately 55 miles per hour, driven by a 25-year-old woman from Newman.

The driver of the Altima and her passenger, a 30-year-old woman also from Newman, both sustained major injuries and were airlifted to hospitals in the Modesto area. The driver of the Prius also suffered major injuries and was transported by air ambulance to Memorial Medical Center in Modesto. CHP said all three occupants were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Investigators determined the Prius driver was under the influence of alcohol and arrested him on suspicion of felony DUI. 

The crash remains under investigation. 

What A Lawyer Can Do For You

Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.