Shafter, CA – On the early morning of Monday, May 19, 2025, a two-vehicle collision involving a motorcycle and a truck resulted in a fatality, according to KBAK.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident occurred around 3:47 AM at the intersection of Central Valley Highway (Highway 43) and Burbank Street, south of Shafter.
According to preliminary findings, a 2000 Chevrolet Silverado was traveling southbound on Highway 43 at approximately 55 miles per hour when a 2025 Honda motorcycle entered the intersection from Burbank Street at a slow speed.
Authorities said the motorcyclist failed to stop at the posted stop sign and rode directly into the truck’s path. The driver of the Chevrolet attempted to swerve left to avoid the collision but struck the motorcycle with the left front side of the vehicle, ejecting the rider.
The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene. The Kern County Coroner’s Office has not yet released the victim’s identity pending notification of next of kin. The driver of the Chevrolet truck was unharmed in the crash.
CHP reported that neither alcohol nor drugs appeared to be contributing factors. The investigation into the fatal collision is ongoing.
Wrongful Death Claims & Comparative Negligence
Determining fault in a collision can involve multiple factors, and under California’s Comparative Negligence rule, several parties can share partial responsibility. Should someone else be found even partly responsible for the death, the family may be able to file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide compensation to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income to support the family of the deceased.
Martin Gasparian is the founder of Maison Law, a California Personal Injury Law Firm. Martin is a graduate of Georgetown University Law School and has been practicing law in California 2004. His practice focuses on helping injury victims know their rights and recover just compensation.
