A male passenger was killed, while a female driver was hospitalized after a single-vehicle crash in Bakersfield on Sunday morning, August 4, 2024.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the accident occurred at about 6:47 a.m. on southbound Highway 99, south of California Avenue.
CHP reported that a 2019 Nissan driven by a 50-year-old woman with a 50-year-old male passenger was traveling southbound on Highway 99 at an undetermined speed. For still unknown reasons, the driver veered to the right of the highway, causing the Nissan to slam into a metal streetlight pole and tree on a nearby embankment.
The male passenger, a Compton native, sustained severe injuries as a result of the collision and was taken to Kern Medical for treatment. He later died at the hospital despite the efforts of the medical personnel attending to him. Meanwhile, the female driver also suffered injuries and was taken to the hospital.
Alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor in the accident. The authorities are still gathering all the necessary information to determine the official cause.
Potential witnesses are encouraged to contact the authorities at (661) 396-6600 as soon as possible and help solve the case.
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.