At least one person was injured following a vehicle vs. semi-truck crash in Bakersfield on Saturday night, June 15, 2024.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the traffic incident was reported around 9:40 p.m. on Highway 99, just south of California Avenue.
The accident involved a small sedan vehicle and an unspecified semi-truck. Details on how the collision occurred remain unclear, but the CHP said that the sedan’s front end got wedged underneath the back end of the semi-truck.
It is said that the crashed sedan burst into flames at one point. Officers confirmed that the driver, only described as a man, was removed from the vehicle by breaking a window. The driver was reportedly taken to Kern Medical after sustaining injuries, including a bleeding arm.
There is no word yet on whether or not the truck driver was also injured.
The southbound lanes of Highway 99 near the crash site were temporarily closed as a precaution. All lanes have since been reopened.
No further details were provided, and the authorities are still gathering all the necessary information to determine the factors leading up to the incident.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.