Suspected hit-and-run crash with big rig kills Irvine man on Hwy 46 near Kecks Rd in Bakersfield – RWB Press

Bakersfield, CA – On Friday, November 1, 2024, an alleged DUI collision involving a big rig resulted in the death of an Irvine man, according to KBAK.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) in Bakersfield said the crash happened around 11:15 a.m. on Highway 46 east of Kecks Road.

Responding officers from the Buttonwillow CHP office found a 29-year-old Fresno man driving a 2015 Freightliner truck traveling southbound on a private dirt road. As the big rig approached the westbound lanes of Highway 46, it crossed 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 did not give up his advantage and moved directly into the path of the Mercedes. The driver of the Mercedes failed to stop in time and collided with the left side of the truck. After the impact, the semi continued across the paved median connecting the westbound and eastbound lanes of Highway 46 before coming to rest in the eastbound lane.

The Irvine man was pronounced dead at the scene. CHP noted the driver of the semi suffered minor injuries and was transported to Kern Medical for treatment.

Investigators suspect alcohol may have been a factor in the crash. This fatal accident is still under investigation.

Wrongful death claims

Even if a fatal accident does not result in criminal charges, families who have lost a loved one can still file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This benefit can help cover medical bills, funeral expenses and lost income that the family depends on.

However, insurance companies will always try to pay as little as possible, making it difficult for families to get the full amount they deserve. So having an experienced personal injury attorney is essential to getting fair compensation and justice for your loved one.

California DUI Law

Section 23153(a) of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) states that it is unlawful for any driver to “operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and as a result cause bodily injury to another.”