Kern County, CA – On the evening of Thursday, July 3, 2025, in Lebec, a collision involving a big rig and a sedan resulted in fatal injuries, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 5:56 PM on the southbound side of Interstate 5 near the Pyramid Lake Road off-ramp.
Initial reports indicate that a blue Toyota sedan was traveling at speeds exceeding 100 MPH before it collided with a red vehicle and a big rig. The sedan veered into the center divide and came to rest facing the wrong direction. Witnesses reported that the vehicle’s airbags deployed and that the driver may have lost consciousness prior to the crash. A big rig involved in the incident was found on the right shoulder, and debris was scattered across the lanes.
Emergency responders, including fire and medical personnel, responded to the accident. At least one person sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The identity of the deceased has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
The driver of the sedan was reported to be conscious following the collision, although the extent of any additional injuries remains unclear.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Authorities have not confirmed whether impairment or mechanical failure contributed to the incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact the California Highway Patrol.
Wrongful Death Claims & Comparative Negligence
Determining fault in a collision can involve multiple factors, and under California’s Comparative Negligence rule, several parties can share partial responsibility. Should someone else be found even partly responsible for the death, the family may be able to file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide compensation to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income to support the family of the deceased.
