49ers' head coach will be limited from coaching, due to recovering from a car accident

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan will have a limited role at the beginning of training camp while recovering from injuries sustained in a July 14 car accident in Palo Alto.

The two-vehicle collision occurred at approximately 6:15 p.m. near Alma Street and Hamilton Avenue. Shanahan was transported to a hospital and subsequently released. The other driver was not injured, according to local authorities.

Shanahan suffered a concussion, a broken nose, three fractured ribs and a hand injury. He also required more than 40 facial stitches. The 49ers described his injuries as non-life-threatening. Palo Alto police said neither driver was suspected of impairment, both cooperated with investigators and no citations were issued.

General manager John Lynch said Shanahan continues to experience effects from the concussion and will follow a medically supervised, phased return similar to the protocol used for players.

Doctors will determine when Shanahan can resume his full responsibilities. Although he may be present around the practice field, he will not lead practices or team meetings until medically cleared.

“This is about his well-being,” Lynch said, emphasizing that the organization will give Shanahan the time necessary to recover.

Assistant head coach and offensive line coach Chris Foerster will temporarily lead the team with assistance from offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak, defensive coordinator Raheem Morris and special team's coordinator Brant Boyer.

In its official statement, the organization thanked the first responders who provided assistance and care following the collision.

The team has not announced a firm date for Shanahan’s full return. However, Lynch said the 49ers do not currently anticipate that the accident will prevent him from coaching the regular-season opener against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia.

Shanahan, 46, is entering his 10th season as San Francisco’s head coach. He has led the franchise to five playoff appearances, three NFC West championships and two Super Bowl appearances.