[05-20-2025] Kern County, CA – Eight People Injured in Two-Vehicle Crash at Manor Street and China Grade Loop in Oildale

Eight people were injured following a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Manor Street and China Grade Loop in Oildale, Kern County, on Tuesday evening, May 20, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol and the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began around 7:00 p.m. when the driver of a 2011 Honda Accord drove onto the Lerdo Jail property without authorization, bypassed security, and fled the area.

The driver was later seen traveling at high speed eastbound on China Grade Loop. At the intersection with Manor Street, the Honda ran a red light and collided with a 2008 Chevrolet Suburban that was proceeding through the intersection on a green signal.

The front of the Suburban struck the right side of the Honda, resulting in significant damage to both vehicles. The Chevrolet was carrying two adults and five children between the ages of 1 and 10.

CHP reported that the Honda driver sustained severe injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. The two adults and five children in the Suburban suffered moderate to major injuries and were also taken to various hospitals for treatment.

The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is handling the investigation related to the events at Lerdo Jail, while the CHP is investigating the crash.

Call Our Reckless Driving Accident Lawyers In Kern County, CA

Reckless driving accidents can cause serious injuries and create emotional and financial stress. If you’ve been affected by such an accident, understanding your rights and the steps you can take is important.

Our reckless driving accident lawyers in Kern County are here to help. We assist by organizing key records, gathering the necessary documents, and explaining how the claims process usually works. Every case is different, and knowing what options are available can give you the confidence to move forward.

If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What To Do After A Reckless Driving Accident

A reckless driving accident can leave you shaken and uncertain about what to do next. Drivers who speed, make unsafe lane changes, or disregard traffic laws endanger everyone on the road. Knowing the proper steps to take after the crash can help protect your well-being, support your legal case, and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Follow these key steps after a reckless driving accident:

1. Prioritize Your Safety
   Check yourself and others for injuries. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further harm. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
2. Call 911
   Report the accident to emergency responders right away. Inform them if anyone is injured and provide details about the other driver’s reckless behavior. Law enforcement officers will arrive to assess the scene, file an official report, and may issue citations or arrest the reckless driver.
3. Seek Medical Attention
   Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately visible, and having a medical record is essential for any future claims.
4. Gather Evidence at the Scene
   If you’re able, take photos or videos of the scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Capture anything that shows reckless behavior, like damaged traffic signs or erratic tire patterns.
5. Collect Information
   Exchange names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information with the other driver. Also, get the contact details of any eyewitnesses who saw the accident unfold. Their testimonies could be valuable in proving fault.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
   Report the accident to your insurance provider, but be careful with what you share. Provide basic facts and avoid giving a recorded statement or accepting any offers until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
7. Contact A Reckless Driving Accident Lawyer
   Speak with a personal injury lawyer who focuses on reckless driving cases. An attorney can safeguard your rights, collect critical evidence, handle insurance negotiations, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Reckless Driving Accident Statistics

Reckless driving remains a leading cause of serious and fatal crashes across the country. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding has consistently played a major role in traffic fatalities for more than 20 years. In 2023 alone, it was a factor in 29% of all motor vehicle deaths, underscoring its ongoing threat to road safety.

Locally, Kern County recorded 864 speed-related crashes that resulted in injuries or fatalities in 2022, based on the latest data from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Crash Rankings.