[05-13-2025] Kern County, CA – 38-Year-Old Woman Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash With Semi-Truck on Taft Highway Near Tupman Road

A 38-year-old woman from Taft was killed in a crash involving a semi-truck on Taft Highway in Kern County on Tuesday afternoon, May 13, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the incident occurred around 4:45 p.m. on Taft Highway, east of Tupman Road.

The woman was driving a 2014 Ford Explorer westbound, while a 30-year-old man from Strawberry Plains, Tennessee, was traveling eastbound in a 2024 Kenworth semi-truck.

For reasons still under investigation, the Ford veered into the eastbound lane, directly into the path of the oncoming semi-truck. The front of the Ford collided head-on with the front of the big rig, according to CHP officials.

Following the impact, the Ford continued northwest and came to rest on the north dirt shoulder. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the semi-truck sustained minor injuries. Authorities stated that it is currently unknown whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Call Our Kern County Truck Accident Lawyers

Truck accidents can lead to serious injuries, mounting medical expenses, and lost income. If you’ve been involved in a crash with a commercial truck, our Kern County truck accident lawyers are here to guide you through the process of seeking compensation.

At Arash Law, we manage the legal aspects of your case from start to finish. We assess your situation, gather the necessary evidence, and handle communication with insurance companies and trucking carriers. Our team is experienced in navigating the complexities of truck accident claims and is committed to helping you move forward.

To schedule a free consultation, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

Steps To Take After A Truck Accident

A collision with a large commercial vehicle can be overwhelming and confusing, leaving you uncertain about the next steps. It’s important to prioritize both your safety and legal rights. Knowing what actions to take immediately after the accident can significantly impact your recovery process.

Here’s a helpful guide:

1. Ensure Safety — If you are able to, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further danger. Stay away from oncoming traffic and remain in a safe location.
2. Check For injuries — Put your safety first before helping others. After evaluating your condition, check how your passengers or the other involved parties are doing. If someone needs emergency medical assistance, dial 911.
3. Collect Evidence — Take pictures and record videos of the scene if you can. Get the truck driver’s license, registration, employer, and insurance information, and note any witnesses’ contact information.
4. Get Checked Medically — Even if you feel fine after the accident, have the paramedics examine you on-site or go to the emergency room. A medical record can be useful if you decide to pursue a claim later on.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company — Report the accident to your insurance provider and provide clear details about what happened. However, avoid making recorded statements before consulting with a lawyer. Even if the other party’s insurance is responsible for the damages, notifying your insurance can help facilitate the claims process and provide necessary support.
6. Consult A Truck Accident Attorney — A truck accident can be a challenging experience, but having an experienced lawyer on your side can be a significant advantage. Our Kern County truck accident attorneys are here to help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Truck Accidents Statistics

In 2023, large trucks were involved in 5,375 fatal crashes, which is an 8.4% decrease from 2022 but a 43% increase over the past 10 years. Large trucks accounted for 9% of all fatal crashes and 10% of total vehicle miles traveled.

Additionally, 114,552 large trucks were involved in injury crashes in 2023, a 4.7% decrease from 2022. Since 2016, the number of trucks involved in injury crashes has increased by 12%, though the involvement rate per 100 million miles traveled has remained steady.