Tempe, AZ – Three People Hurt in Multi-Vehicle Accident at Baseline Rd & Priest Dr

Tempe, AZ (January 18, 2026) – Three people were hurt on January 18 after a multi-vehicle crash near Baseline Road and Priest Drive in Tempe. Emergency units responded after reports that a driver ran a red light and caused a chain-reaction accident involving several vehicles.

The crash occurred during the early morning hours. Authorities said one driver entered the intersection after running a red light and struck another vehicle. The impact pushed those vehicles into two nearby self-driving Waymo cars.

Tempe police confirmed that neither Waymo vehicle carried passengers at the time of the collision. The autonomous vehicles became involved only after the initial crash between the two occupied cars.

Three people from the first two vehicles suffered injuries and required hospital care. Emergency responders took all three to area hospitals for treatment. Authorities reported that each injured person remained in stable condition.

The crash scene involved multiple vehicles and required coordination from emergency units. Responders assessed injuries, secured the area, and cleared the damaged vehicles from the roadway.

Investigators documented the intersection and reviewed how the crash unfolded. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the accident.

Our thoughts remain with those injured as they continue receiving care and recover.

Why Red-Light Crashes Often Lead to Multi-Vehicle Accidents in Tempe

Red-light crashes frequently trigger chain-reaction accidents because they happen in active intersections. Vehicles often move from multiple directions, leaving little time to react. Even one mistake can quickly involve several cars.

Intersections like Baseline Road and Priest Drive see steady traffic throughout the day. Drivers may accelerate when the lights change, increasing the force of impact. When a vehicle enters against a signal, nearby drivers often cannot avoid contact.

People hurt in these crashes may face a wide range of injuries. Sudden side impacts can cause head injuries, neck strain, or internal trauma. Some symptoms appear right away, while others develop hours later.

Medical visits help identify injuries early and create important records. Even people who feel stable at first may benefit from follow-up care. Documentation also helps guide treatment and recovery plans.

A personal injury lawyer can help explain options after a multi-vehicle collision. An attorney may review reports, medical records, and insurance communications. Legal guidance can clarify what types of compensation may be available.

Claims involving several vehicles can become complex. Different insurance policies may apply, especially when autonomous vehicles are involved. Having clear explanations can help people understand how the process works.

National Injury Help has years of experience reviewing crash-related questions and explaining available options. We help crash victims and their families understand their next steps after injury accidents. We can discuss how medical bills, insurance issues, and documentation may apply in your situation.

If you have questions after a car accident, you can contact National Injury Help. Call (866) 932-4817 to speak with our experienced car accident lawyer in Tempe and learn more about possible options following a multi-vehicle crash.