[06-05-2025] San Bernardino County, CA – Man Dies After SUV and Big Rig Crash on Highway 138 Near Gramercy Road

A man from Palmdale died over the weekend from injuries he sustained in a possible hit-and-run collision involving a big rig in Phelan, San Bernardino County, on Thursday night, June 5, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 10:05 p.m. along eastbound Highway 138, just east of Gramercy Road.

The victim, 37-year-old Aaron G., was driving a BMW X7 SUV behind a Freightliner tractor-trailer when his vehicle struck the rear of the trailer.

CHP officials said the driver was found unconscious inside the SUV and transported to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton, where he remained hospitalized until he died on Saturday.

Authorities reported that the big rig involved had fled the scene but was located shortly after the crash over a mile away along Hess Road. The truck’s driver and a passenger were not injured.

No arrests have been made, though the incident is still under investigation, including the possibility of hit-and-run charges. Intoxication is not suspected as a factor in the crash.

Talk To Our Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers In San Bernardino County, CA

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident, particularly with a large vehicle like a big rig, can be both distressing and overwhelming. These types of accidents often result in serious injuries, and when the driver leaves the scene, it adds even more stress to an already challenging situation. Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in San Bernardino County are here to guide you through this difficult time.

We will investigate the incident by reviewing police reports, collecting video footage, and speaking with any witnesses who may have seen the crash or the truck that fled the scene. We also work closely with medical professionals to document your injuries, monitor your recovery, and assess any future medical needs. This helps strengthen your case when dealing with insurance companies. If your case goes to court, our team will focus on presenting a strong, fact-based case to hold the responsible party accountable.

Contact us today at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form to speak with one of our lawyers about your next steps.

Steps To Take After A Hit-And-Run Accident

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming, but it’s important to stay calm and take the right steps to protect your health and legal rights. If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run, follow these recommended steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
   Even if you don’t feel injured, seeking medical care right away is crucial. Some injuries may not be immediately visible or may develop over time. A medical evaluation creates a record of your injuries, which is important for your health and future claims.
2. Report The Accident To Authorities
   Call the police as soon as possible. Reporting the incident immediately ensures that there is an official record and helps initiate an investigation. Make sure to provide them with as many details as you can, such as the location, time, and any descriptions of the vehicle or the driver.
3. Document The Scene And Your Injuries
   Take photos of your injuries, the scene of the accident, and any damage to your vehicle or surrounding objects. If you are unable to do this yourself, ask someone to help. This evidence can be crucial for your case.
4. Gather Witness Information
   If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information. Their statements can provide valuable details about the incident that could support your case.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
   If you have insurance coverage, inform your provider about the accident as soon as possible. Your lawyer can help you understand the best way to communicate with your insurance company and protect your interests.
6. Contact An Experienced Lawyer
   Reach out to a hit-and-run accident lawyer who can help you understand your rights and guide you through the next steps. A lawyer can assist with gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and building your case if necessary.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics

According to the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (2022), hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately common in the United States. Between 2018 and 2022, over 4 million people were involved in hit-and-run incidents, with more than 12,000 of those resulting in fatalities. Despite the serious nature of these accidents, the vast majority, about 74 percent, were property damage only.

In 2022, roughly 0.4 percent (or 1 in 250) of all licensed drivers in the U.S. were involved in a hit-and-run. Geographically, the South has the highest number of fatal hit-and-runs per capita, followed by the West, Midwest, and Northeast. California reported the highest total number of fatal hit-and-runs in 2022, with 490 deaths. However, Louisiana had the highest rate of fatal hit-and-runs, with 1.70 per 100,000 residents, which is 139 percent higher than the national average.