[06-27-2025] Kern County, CA – One Killed, Two Injured in Multi-Vehicle Crash on Highway 58 Near Driver Road in Bakersfield

A driver was killed, and two others were hospitalized following a multi-vehicle crash involving two Freightliners and a van on Highway 58 in Bakersfield early Friday morning, June 27, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 12:38 a.m. on Highway 58 west of Driver Road.

A 2018 Freightliner pulling a semi-trailer was traveling westbound when, for unknown reasons, it crossed into the eastbound lane and collided head-on with a 2021 Freightliner tow truck. A 2003 Honda Odyssey van, traveling eastbound behind the tow truck, was also struck.

The impact sent the 2018 Freightliner and its trailer off the roadway, where it hit a power pole and caught fire, sparking a small brush fire in the area.

The driver of the 2021 Freightliner tow truck, identified as 39-year-old Raul I. Jr. of Bakersfield, died at the scene. The drivers of the 2018 Freightliner and the Honda Odyssey were both transported to Kern Medical with severe injuries.

It remains unknown whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash. The investigation is ongoing.

Speak With Our Bakersfield Truck Accident Lawyers

Crashes involving commercial trucks can lead to devastating consequences, especially when more than one large vehicle is involved. These incidents often raise complex questions about what happened and what steps can be taken next.

Our Bakersfield truck accident lawyers assist individuals and families by explaining how these types of cases are generally handled in California. Whether you are dealing with serious injuries or the unexpected loss of a loved one, we are available to provide information and help you explore your legal options.

If you would like to speak with someone about your situation, call (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have a Case?” form. Your consultation is free and confidential.

Steps To Take After A Truck Accident

A serious crash involving large trucks and passenger vehicles can leave people confused about what to do next. Whether you were involved in the collision or supporting a loved one who was injured or lost their life, the steps below may help you understand how to begin moving forward.

1. Request the Crash Report from CHP
   The California Highway Patrol typically prepares an official report after serious truck accidents. This report may include crash details, witness statements, initial findings, and diagrams. You can request a copy through CHP’s local office that responded to the crash.
2. Collect Medical And Emergency Records
   If you or a loved one received emergency care or were transported to the hospital, gather all related documents. These may include ambulance reports, hospital admission records, surgical notes, or coroner findings in fatal cases. Keeping this paperwork organized can help clarify the impact of the crash.
3. Save Any Photos or Physical Evidence
   If photos were taken of the crash scene, vehicle damage, visible injuries, or road conditions, be sure to store them safely. Any evidence, such as debris, damaged personal items, or dashcam footage, may also be useful later on.
4. Keep Track Of Expenses And Lost Income
   Medical bills, transportation costs, time away from work, funeral costs, and property damage can add up quickly. Keep receipts, statements, and notes to help understand the financial impact of the crash.
5. Avoid Rushing Into Insurance Settlements
   After a truck accident, insurance companies may reach out with questions or early offers. It is okay to take your time and avoid giving detailed statements until you feel comfortable and informed. You are not required to accept any offers right away.
6. Talk To A Lawyer Familiar With Truck Accident Cases
   Legal professionals who handle truck accident cases can explain how liability is typically determined and help you understand your rights. Speaking with a lawyer may give you clarity about what steps are available, especially when multiple vehicles or commercial carriers are involved.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Truck Accident Statistics

In 2022, crashes involving large trucks led to 4,764 fatalities. Of those, 17% were individuals inside the trucks, 66% were people in passenger vehicles, and 16% were pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcyclists. The number of fatalities from truck accidents saw a significant rise in 2022, increasing by 51% compared to 2009, which had the lowest number of truck-related deaths since 1975. Additionally, truck driver fatalities rose by 83% from the previous year.

In 2023, 5,375 large trucks were involved in fatal accidents. While this represented an 8.4% decrease from 2022, it still marked a 43% increase from a decade ago. Over the past 10 years, the rate of truck accidents per 100 million miles driven has grown by 22%, highlighting a concerning trend in truck safety on the roads.