Toyota 4Runner towing a U-Haul trailer collided with a box truck in Hayward
July 21, 2026 | Hayward, CA
A fatal collision Tuesday afternoon on Highway 92 in Hayward claimed the life of 29-year-old Justin Matthews of San Ramon.
What happened in the crash?
Justin Matthews, 29, of San Ramon died after Toyota 4Runner towing a U-Haul trailer collided with a box truck on Highway 92 near Industrial Boulevard.
- Date and time: Tuesday, July 21, at 3:54 p.m.
- Location: Westbound Highway 92 just east of Industrial Boulevard, approaching the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge
- Vehicles involved: Toyota 4Runner towing a U-Haul trailer and a box truck
- Outcome: Matthews was transported to a hospital and later died, the box truck driver was uninjured
- Status: Cause under investigation by the California Highway Patrol
Why do these accidents happen?
Several factors contribute to traffic fatalities, including speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 8,055 motor vehicle deaths in the first quarter of 2025.
| Factor | Description | Source |
|---|
| Speeding | Excessive speed reduces reaction time | Federal Highway Administration |
| Impaired driving | Alcohol or drug influence | CDC |
| Distracted driving | Cellphone use while operating a vehicle | National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, independent review of evidence can supplement official investigations. Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, noted that attorneys can re-interview witnesses, examine surveillance video, and obtain phone records when relevant.
“Time is of the essence in cases such as this one, and the victim’s family must ensure that evidence is reviewed efficiently.”
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, added that families may pursue wrongful death claims for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Key takeaways
- Families should act promptly to preserve evidence
- Insurance companies may offer low settlements without legal guidance
- Professional review helps protect rights during claims processes
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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).