Bakersfield, CA – On Friday, November 1, 2024, a suspected DUI collision involving a big rig resulted in the death of a man from Irvine, according to KBAK.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) Bakersfield division reported that the crash occurred around 11:15 AM, on Highway 46 east of Kecks Road.
Responding officers from the Buttonwillow CHP office found that a 29-year-old Fresno man driving a 2015 Freightliner truck was traveling southbound on a private dirt road. As the big rig approached the westbound lanes of Highway 46, it crossed into the path of a westbound 2019 Mercedes, driven by the Irvine man, who was in the number two lane approaching the intersection.
For reasons still under investigation, the big rig driver reportedly failed to yield the right of way, moving directly into the path of the Mercedes. The driver of the Mercedes was unable to stop in time and collided with the left side of the truck. Following the impact, the semi-trailer continued across a paved median connecting the westbound and eastbound lanes of Highway 46 before coming to a stop in the eastbound lanes.
The Irvine man was pronounced dead at the scene. CHP noted that the driver of the semi-trailer sustained minor injuries and was transported to Kern Medical for treatment.
Investigators suspect that alcohol may have been a factor in the crash. This fatal accident is still under investigation.
Wrongful Death Claims
Even if a fatal accident doesn’t lead to criminal charges, families who lose a loved one can still file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This compensation can help cover medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income that the family depended on.
However, insurance companies will always try to pay as little as possible, making it difficult for families to receive the full amount they deserve. So, having an experienced personal injury attorney is essential to receive fair compensation and justice for your loved one.
California DUI Law
Section 23153(a) of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) states that it is illegal for any driver to “Operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to someone else.”
