Two men lost their lives in a single-vehicle rollover accident near Cottonwood Road and East Pacheco Road in Bakersfield on Tuesday afternoon, October 8, 2024.
Bakersfield Police Department officers responded at approximately 5:03 p.m. and found a Dodge pickup truck overturned east of the intersection.
One man was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital.
Witnesses reported that the driver was traveling southbound on Cottonwood Road and using the west shoulder to pass other vehicles when he lost control, causing the truck to roll multiple times and ejecting both occupants.
Police suspect speed and impairment were factors in the crash. The Kern County Coroner’s Office will release the identities of the victims at a later time, and Bakersfield Police are continuing to investigate.
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.