[10-12-2024] San Bernardino County, CA – Three Killed, Including 9-Year-Old Girl in Crash Outside Baker

Three people were killed, including a 9-year-old girl from Santa Monica, in a crash outside of Baker, San Bernardino County, on Saturday afternoon, October 12, 2024.

According to the California Highway Patrol, officers received a report around 4:30 p.m. about a black Toyota SUV that had crashed into the center median of the 15 Freeway, just south of Halloran Summit Road near milepost marker 154.

The SUV was traveling northbound on the freeway when the driver veered left into the center median. “The SUV crashed into the guardrail and continued in a northeast direction, striking a concrete embankment within the Kali Ditch, near milepost marker 15 SBD 154,” the CHP stated in a release.

All three passengers in the SUV, including the young girl, a 43-year-old woman, and a 56-year-old man, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities have not been released.

It remains unclear whether alcohol or drugs were involved in the crash. The investigation is ongoing.

Reach Out To Our Trusted Car Accident Lawyers In San Bernardino County

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Consult with one of our personal injury attorneys, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., for guidance on your car accident case. Arash Law is ready to assist you!

Our trusted San Bernardino County car accident lawyers will evaluate your case, discuss the next steps, and consider all factors that could impact your settlement amount. Moreover, they can help you obtain additional information or a police report if needed.

Our legal team has a well-established reputation for advocating for accident victims, with clients receiving over $750 Million in compensation.

To speak with one of our personal injury lawyers, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What To Do After A Car Accident In San Bernardino County

While no one can predict a car accident, you can be prepared. Knowing a car accident checklist can help you stay organized and calm after a crash. It outlines what to do, what not to do, and how to protect your rights. You are not alone after a collision, regardless of its severity.

Whether you are the injured party or a family member of a deceased victim, here’s what you should do following a car accident:

1. Remain at the scene and check everyone’s condition. First, check yourself for injuries, then others. Stay composed and try to regain your calm.
2. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road and turn on your emergency flashers to alert other drivers. Find a safe place to wait for the police.
3. Report your accident to the authorities as soon as possible. The police will document the incident and gather information for an official record.
4. Share names, phone numbers, and insurance details with the other driver(s). If possible, take photos of the vehicles, license plates, and other critical details.
5. Avoid admitting fault or apologizing when talking to the police or others involved. Stick to the facts when describing the incident.
6. Visit a hospital or your primary doctor immediately. Prompt medical care can help mitigate injury effects and identify internal injuries.
7. California insurers have deadlines for reporting accidents. Contact your insurer promptly and follow the agent’s instructions.
8. You may receive a call from the other party’s insurer soon after the accident. Be cautious with the information you share. Do not record statements or accept settlement offers before consulting an attorney.
9. Keep all accident-related documents, including police reports, medical bills, and other important information, organized in a file.
10. If in doubt, call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation. We can assess your case, assist with insurance communications, and help you file a personal injury claim if necessary. Our California car accident lawyers are here to support you and address your concerns.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data from 2022, motor vehicle accidents were responsible for 20% of preventable injury-related deaths in the US. From January to June 2023, approximately 19,515 traffic-related deaths were recorded, a 3.3% decrease from the 20,190 deaths reported in the first half of 2022.

In the first half of 2023, the NHTSA reported 2,061 motor vehicle fatalities in California. The state recorded a total of 160,819 fatal and injury crashes in the previous year.