![[11-03-2025] 17-Year-Old Passenger Killed After Van Fails to Stop at Stop Sign on Lerdo Highway in Bakersfield](https://ak1.to//VlVD.webp)
A 17-year-old passenger died after the vehicle he was in allegedly failed to stop at a stop sign, was struck by a truck, and ended up partially submerged in a reservoir on Lerdo Highway in Bakersfield on Monday evening, November 3, 2025.
The crash occurred around 6:09 p.m. at the intersection of Lerdo Highway and Scaroni Avenue, according to the California Highway Patrol.
A preliminary investigation found that an 18-year-old man from Shafter was driving a 2006 Ford Windstar van northbound on Scaroni Avenue. At the same time, a 23-year-old man from Shafter was driving a 2023 Ford F250 pickup eastbound on Lerdo Highway.
For reasons still under investigation, the driver of the Ford van failed to stop at the posted stop sign and drove directly into the path of the Ford pickup.
The collision caused the van to be pushed into a water-filled reservoir.
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.
