![[11-01-2024] Man Killed After Suspected DUI Crash Involving Semi-Truck on Highway 46](https://ak1.to//9IFFl.webp)
An Irvine man lost his life in a suspected DUI collision involving a semi-trailer truck on Highway 46, west of Bakersfield, on Friday morning, November 1, 2024.
The California Highway Patrol Bakersfield received a report around 11:15 a.m. about a two-vehicle crash on Highway 46, east of Kecks Road. Officers from the Buttonwillow CHP office responded to the scene.
According to authorities, a 29-year-old Fresno man was operating a 2015 Freightliner semi-trailer southbound on a private dirt road and approached the westbound lanes of Highway 46. Simultaneously, an Irvine man driving a 2019 Mercedes westbound on Highway 46 in the number two lane was approaching the semi-trailer.
The semi-trailer driver did not yield the right of way, moving into the westbound lanes directly into the path of the Mercedes. The Irvine man was unable to stop and crashed into the left side of the semi-trailer. The semi-truck continued into the eastbound lanes of Highway 46 before stopping.
The Irvine man was pronounced dead at the scene, while the semi-trailer driver sustained minor injuries and was taken to Kern Medical. CHP stated that alcohol appears to have been a factor in the crash.
The investigation is ongoing.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
