[08-31-2025] Kern County, CA – One Killed, Another Seriously Injured in Head-On Collision on Highway 119 in Dustin Acres

One person was killed and another seriously injured in a head-on collision involving two pickup trucks on Highway 119 in Dustin Acres in Kern County on Sunday afternoon, August 31, 2025.

According to authorities, the crash occurred around 3:30 p.m. about one-quarter mile south of Sunridge.

The driver of one pickup was pronounced dead at the scene, while the female driver of the second pickup was pinned in the vehicle and extricated by Kern County firefighters. She was transported by ground ambulance for treatment of serious injuries.

The collision caused the fatal victim’s truck to be knocked off the roadway, while the other pickup remained in the middle of the highway. Highway 119 was closed at the scene, but traffic was being redirected via Tank Farm Road.

Authorities continue to investigate the crash.

Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers In Kern County, CA

Head-on collisions can result in fatal or serious injuries, leaving victims and their families with significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Learning about possible legal options may help you make informed decisions after a car accident.

Our car accident lawyers in Kern County can help you explore available legal avenues following an incident. This may include reviewing official reports, assisting with insurance matters, and explaining the process of seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related damages. Early legal guidance may help families navigate the aftermath of a serious collision effectively.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic accident, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A Car Accident In Kern County, CA

Being involved in a head-on collision can be overwhelming, especially when fatalities or serious injuries are involved. Taking the right steps afterward may help protect your rights and preserve important evidence:

1. Call 911 And Seek Medical Care
   Contact emergency services immediately and ensure anyone injured receives prompt medical attention. Even injuries that do not appear severe should be checked for hidden trauma.
2. Document The Scene And Vehicle Damage
   If it is safe, take photos of the accident scene, all vehicles involved, and any visible damage. This documentation may assist with insurance claims and potential legal matters.
3. Gather Witness Information
   Collect names and contact details of any witnesses. Their statements can help clarify the circumstances of the crash.
4. Consult Car Accident Lawyers
   Kern County personal injury lawyers can explain potential legal options, assist with insurance communications, and help preserve time-sensitive evidence. Early legal involvement may help ensure the case is handled appropriately.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

During the first half of 2023, approximately 19,515 people lost their lives in car crashes across the United States. This represented a 3.3 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2022, when 20,190 fatalities were reported. It also marked the fifth consecutive six-month period in which traffic deaths declined.

Notably, the decline occurred even as drivers spent more time on the road. Total vehicle miles traveled increased by roughly 35.1 billion miles, reflecting a 2.3 percent rise over the previous year.

As a result, the fatality rate per 100 million miles driven also improved. In 2023, there were an estimated 1.24 deaths per 100 million miles, compared to a projected rate of 1.31.