Produce Big Rig Hits Six Other Cars in Fatal Accident on Hwy 58 Near Edwards AFB

A semi-truck hauling vegetables was involved in a multi-vehicle accident along Highway 58 in southeast Kern County. It happened north of Edwards Air Force Base on Friday evening.

KBFX-TV reported that the frightening collisions occurred around 6 p.m. on June 30, 2023. The California Highway Patrol said the accident happened near the intersection of California City Boulevard. It involved a big rig that crashed into six other vehicles, including an Amazon delivery truck. The accident left cars and trucks with major damage and caused delivery packages and produce to spill across the lanes.

Tragically, one victim was killed in the crash. That victim has not been identified. There’s been no update on if there were any other injuries caused by the accident.

The California Highway Patrol continues to work to figure out what might have caused the collisions.

Maison Law of Bakersfield also posted information about this tragic accident along with information on how victims and their families can seek accident support.

Truck Accident Hazards for Kern County Drivers

Kern County is home to many farms and ranches and it’s not uncommon to see lines of semi-trucks on local highways carrying fruits and vegetables and hauling livestock. These trucks and their drivers are the lifeblood of our local economy. They also present elevated dangers when proper maintenance is ignored and when truck drivers allow themselves to get distracted or reckless.

California transportation officials monitor the truck accident rates across Kern County each year. By their figures, there were 326 serious accidents (with reported injuries) involving big trucks across Kern County in 2022. Those accidents led to the tragic loss of 37 lives for the year.

Local agricultural companies and manufacturers must work harder to keep roadways safe for all travelers. They are responsible for hiring the safest drivers possible and supporting them with training, safety inspections, and safe trucks. When these and other duties are forgotten and someone gets hurt, companies should be held accountable for the damage and the harm caused.

What To Do After a Truck Accident in Kern County

Victims of devastating accidents and their families are encouraged to stay informed of every benefit available to them. A Bakersfield Truck Accident Lawyer will discuss your case with you in a free consultation. This case review is confidential and comes with no obligation to you or your family. After a scary collision, victims should be able to secure the best medical care available, and families must receive full support to help them get through such a difficult time.