![[10-26-2024] Santa Maria Resident Killed After Suspected DUI Pedestrian Crash on Highway 46](https://ak1.to//fO5H.webp)
A Santa Maria resident was fatally struck in a suspected DUI-related crash on Highway 46 in Bakersfield on Saturday night, October 26, 2024.
The California Highway Patrol reported that officers responded to a crash involving an unknown object at around 8:41 p.m. on Highway 46, east of Kecks Road.
A preliminary investigation revealed that the victim, a male from Santa Maria, was walking near the eastbound number one lane of Highway 46 when he entered the lane directly in front of an oncoming vehicle.
The vehicle, a 2014 silver Lincoln Navigator driven by a 52-year-old Bakersfield man, was traveling eastbound in the same lane. The driver was unable to avoid the pedestrian, resulting in a fatal collision.
The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver and passengers in the Lincoln were unharmed. CHP indicated that alcohol or drugs appear to have played a role in the incident, and an investigation into the exact cause 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.
