We drive on Grizzly Peak all the time, so the news about a driver killed there yesterday hit close to home. The Tribune reported that an SUV driver took a curve sharply, the vehicle fell 250 feet, and the victim was ejected en route. This accident news felt like a sucker punch.
It could happen to anyone. How often have you raced across the ridge roads, and thought “that was close” to yourself? Driven up to an East Bay Regional Park, only thinking about the hiking trails ahead? Or headed over to Berkeley, with your mind elsewhere? Guilty as charged for me, on all three counts.
There’s no easy answer to living with windy, circuitous boulevards that everyone takes too quickly. It doesn’t matter if you are a regular visitor or tourist there. We like these ridgelines and stellar views, and simply accept the risks for the rewards.
Maybe the only takeaway is that we try driving with a bit more consciousness, up in the hills.
Today in Montclair, 94611 
One has to wonder whether this was a cellphone-use related death. Remember that cellphone users drive as badly as drunks.
This was very unfortunate and tragic. I am sure she was neither speeding nor on the cellphone. This day was foggy and this is not a regular/familiar route for her. It would have been better if she was on the cellphone. At least someone would have been able to get help right away. She probably would be hurt badly, but be alive.
So awful! We were thinking even more about your friend’s accident early yesterday, while driving the ridge line in blind conditions.
We know this turn all too well
My wife ended up perched half on half off on that curve – Why? Lexus coupe went into “autopilot” in light rain – confused the computer or something; Lexus blamed the operator naturally, denied was possible. 18 months later – same condition hit me on the bay bridge and without hitting the brakes, I also hydroplaned into tunnel wall at 50 mph – (end of car – lucky to be alive). Point is – this can happen to ANYONE and even in vehicles that you think are safe- especially in light rain – fog etc.
That turn – with a “perfect storm” of conditions, can take out even a focused driver paying full attention.
I am a general assignment news reporter for UC Berkeley’s student newspaper, The Daily Californian. I am trying to put together a piece about Grizzly Peak Blvd. and the safety issues in that area. I have done some research and found 4 different accidents that have happened in this area in the past 3 years–it definitely looks like a place that could use some safety attention. If anyone has some information about the road they could provide for our story it would be much appreciated; we are trying to get some publicity in hopes that some kind of road barrier or safety measures will at least be considered. If you can get into contact with me withing the next day or so that would be great; you can email me at hparish@dailycal.org. Again, I would LOVE to get some localized perspective on this area, and Montclairoak (Debby), Bennett, or anyone who knows or drives the area would be a great source. Thanks so much and I hope to hear from you!