Kern County, CA — The Kern County Coroner’s Office has identified Emilio Garcia Mendoza, a 26-year-old resident of Atascadero, as the man killed in a pedestrian accident on October 26, 2024, according to KBAK.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded to the scene after receiving reports of a collision around 8:41 PM on Highway 46 east of Kecks Road.
The accident occurred in a rural area of Kern County, where Highway 46 is bordered by open fields. According to preliminary investigation by the CHP, Mendoza was walking near the eastbound lanes of Highway 46 when he may have stepped into the roadway.
A 52-year-old man from Bakersfield was driving a 2014 silver Lincoln Navigator eastbound in the number one lane and could not avoid hitting Mendoza.
Investigators noted that alcohol or drugs might have been involved, though they have not specified further details.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a specific “Duty of Care” towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
If the at-fault driver avoids legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact Maison Law for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
