Chuo Expressway crash in Yamanashi injures seven in seven-vehicle collision
Seven people were injured in a seven-vehicle crash on Chuo Expressway in Uenohara, Yamanashi on August 5, 2026; upbound lanes closed while police investigate.
Seven-Vehicle Collision on Chuo Expressway
On August 5, 2026, shortly after 1:00 p.m., a multi-vehicle collision involving seven vehicles occurred on the Chuo Expressway in Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Police and fire department officials said the crash included passenger cars and trucks and forced an immediate emergency response at the scene.
The incident took place on the upbound side of the expressway and prompted authorities to block traffic in affected stretches while first responders attended to the wounded and secured the roadway. Details about the sequence of events that led to the collision have not been released.
Seven People Transported to Hospital, Conscious
Fire and police officials reported that seven people were taken to hospital after the crash, and that all were conscious when transported. Authorities did not provide a detailed breakdown of injuries, only stating that the condition of each person was being assessed by medical staff.
Hospital sources have so far declined to release further medical updates pending family notification and doctor assessments. Emergency crews prioritized rapid evacuation to nearby hospitals to ensure victims received prompt care.
Upbound Lanes Closed Between Interchanges
The upbound lanes of the Chuo Expressway were closed in two stretches: between Otsuki Interchange and Uenohara Interchange, and between Tsuru Interchange and Otsuki Junction. The closures remained in effect as recovery and investigative work continued on the afternoon of August 5, 2026.
Officials warned motorists that the closures were expected to cause significant delays on the expressway and on parallel local routes as traffic was diverted. No timetable for reopening the affected sections was provided at the time, as clearance depended on vehicle removal and scene processing.
Fire and Police Responded to Scene
Yamanashi Prefectural Police and local fire departments arrived quickly after receiving emergency calls and coordinated rescue operations at the crash site. Firefighters assisted with extrication where necessary and provided first aid while waiting for ambulance transport to arrive.
Police set up traffic control points and worked with highway maintenance crews to contain hazards, clear debris, and prevent secondary collisions. Investigators also documented the scene with photographs and witness statements to preserve evidence.
Traffic Backup and Local Impact
The closure of multiple upbound sections caused substantial backups on the Chuo Expressway and increased traffic on feeder roads and local streets in Uenohara and neighboring municipalities. Commuters and long-distance travelers reported slow-moving traffic and extended journey times on the afternoon of August 5.
Local authorities advised drivers to avoid the area if possible, to allow emergency services to operate without obstruction. Public transportation operators and highway information services issued alerts to warn passengers and drivers of the disruptions.
Investigation into Cause Underway
Yamanashi police said an investigation into the cause of the collision is under way, with officers interviewing drivers and witnesses and reviewing any available dashcam or surveillance footage. At this stage, they have not identified a definitive cause, and have not attributed responsibility to any individual or factor.
Authorities cautioned that factors such as speed, traffic conditions, vehicle malfunction, and driver behavior are all routinely examined following multi-vehicle crashes, and it may take time before a full determination is made. Anyone with information or footage related to the incident was asked to contact the investigating unit.
Emergency responders continue clearing the site and supporting those affected, while police and highway crews work to restore normal traffic flow. The Prefectural Police have said they will release further updates as more information becomes available.
