Bakersfield, CA — A fatal collision on the night of Thursday, July 4, 2024, left one injured, one dead, and another in custody for allegedly driving under the influence, according to KBAK.
The crash occurred at the intersection of Oak Street and 24th Street in central Bakersfield around 8:39 PM.
The Bakersfield Police Department reports that the driver involved in the crash was traveling northbound on Oak Street when he attempted to make an eastbound turn onto 24th Street. During the turn, the vehicle struck a male pedestrian standing on the center divider. The driver then continued to hit four additional cars before coming to a full stop.
One of the occupants of the four cars that were subsequently hit sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The injured pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, and he was booked into the Kern County Jail.
The Bakersfield Police Department is asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
Wrongful Death Claims
Whether or not a collision results in criminal charges for any of those involved, families who have lost a loved one in a fatal collision may be able to file a Wrongful Death claim with the insurance provider of the at-fault driver.
The compensation provided by a Wrongful Death claim can relieve the financial burdens created by medical expenses, burial costs, and the loss of income needed to support the deceased’s dependents.
Insurance companies will work to reduce any claim they cannot deny. This is where the help of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney proves invaluable, negotiating on behalf of victims and their families to ensure they receive proper compensation.
