![[09-29-2024] 16-Year-Old Boy Dies After Crashing Into Canal in Bakersfield](https://ak1.to//LSSEv.webp)
A 16-year-old Lamont boy died after crashing into a canal in southwest Bakersfield early Sunday morning, September 29, 2024.
The California Highway Patrol reported that at around 1:22 a.m., officers were called to a report of a vehicle in a canal. A preliminary investigation found that a 2014 Toyota was traveling southbound on Cottonwood Road, south of Panama Lane, at an undetermined rate of speed.
Authorities stated that the Toyota veered off the main portion of the roadway in a southwesterly direction and crashed into the canal, submerging underwater.
The driver of the Toyota, identified as a 16-year-old boy from Lamont, sustained major injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The passengers of the Toyota, identified as an 18-year-old man and a 19-year-old woman, were able to exit the vehicle.
CHP is investigating whether alcohol and/or drugs played a role in the crash.
No further details were immediately available.
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.
