Pedestrian Injured in Bakersfield Big Rig Crash

Pedestrian Injured in Big Rig Collision on Costajo Road in Bakersfield

Incident Overview

A pedestrian sustained injuries Tuesday morning after being struck by a semi-truck in Bakersfield. The collision happened around 11 a.m. on Costajo Road just north of Bear Mountain Boulevard and involved a red Freightliner big rig. The pedestrian was transported to Kern Medical for treatment. The truck driver was not injured and remained at the scene, cooperating with investigators. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is handling the investigation, and additional details have not yet been released.

Location and Timeline

The incident took place in the southbound lanes of Costajo Road near Bear Mountain Boulevard—an area that can see a mix of local traffic, agricultural vehicles, and heavy trucks. Time of day matters in a pedestrian collision: late morning sunlight, traffic volume, and roadway activity can all influence visibility and driver decision-making. While the precise sequence of events is still being determined, the early reports note that the pedestrian was walking near the southbound lanes when the collision occurred.

Ongoing Investigation

As with any significant injury crash, CHP will examine a number of factors to determine what happened and who may be responsible. That typically includes:
- Statements from the truck driver, pedestrian (when possible), and any witnesses
- Inspection of the truck’s condition, including brakes, tires, and lighting
- Review of electronic data from the truck’s engine control module (ECM) or “black box,” dash cameras, and electronic logging devices (ELDs)
- Analysis of cellphone records where relevant
- Assessment of roadway conditions, signage, and sightlines
- Measurements of skid marks, debris fields, and vehicle positions

If additional vehicles or entities contributed to the danger—such as poor roadway maintenance or obstructed signage—those findings may also become part of the investigation.

Why Pedestrian–Truck Crashes Are So Dangerous

Pedestrians are uniquely vulnerable in traffic collisions because they lack the protection of a vehicle. When a heavy commercial truck is involved, the risk is even greater due to:
- Size and weight: A fully loaded big rig can weigh 20 to 30 times more than a passenger car, creating immense force on impact.
- Longer stopping distances: Even at moderate speeds, trucks require a much longer distance to come to a complete stop.
- Height and visibility: Large trucks have substantial blind spots along the sides, directly in front, and behind the trailer.
- Maneuverability limits: Trucks have wider turns and reduced ability to take evasive action, especially on narrower roads.

Common Contributing Factors in Pedestrian–Truck Collisions

While the specific cause of this Bakersfield crash remains under investigation, several factors regularly appear in pedestrian–truck incidents:
- Speed unsafe for conditions (even within the speed limit)
- Driver inattention or distraction, including handheld device use
- Fatigue or hours-of-service violations
- Failure to yield or failure to exercise due care near pedestrians
- Limited visibility or glare
- Inadequate vehicle maintenance (e.g., brake or lighting issues)
- Hazardous roadway conditions or insufficient lighting/signage
- Pedestrian positioning near lanes of travel or crossing outside of crosswalks

Understanding California Laws That May Apply

California law imposes duties on both drivers and pedestrians to promote safety.

- Duty of care toward pedestrians: Drivers must exercise due care to avoid collisions and take extra precautions when pedestrians are present, regardless of whether the pedestrian is in a crosswalk.
- Right-of-way rules: In crosswalks, pedestrians generally have the right of way. Outside crosswalks, pedestrians must yield to vehicles, but drivers still have a duty to use caution and avoid foreseeable harm.
- Basic speed law: Motorists must drive at a speed that is reasonable for conditions, including roadway, traffic, and visibility.
- Handheld device prohibition: California restricts handheld cellphone use by drivers, and violations can be evidence of negligence.
- Commercial trucking standards: Truck drivers and carriers must comply with federal and state safety regulations, including hours-of-service rules, maintenance requirements, and driver qualification standards. Carriers can be held responsible for negligent entrustment, training, supervision, or violations that contribute to an accident.

Comparative Fault in California

California follows a comparative negligence system. If more than one party shares responsibility for a crash, a court or insurer can apportion fault by percentage. Even if a pedestrian is found partially at fault (for example, by walking near traffic lanes or outside a crosswalk), they may still pursue compensation, with any award reduced by their share of responsibility.

Injuries and Medical Care After a Pedestrian Impact

Pedestrian collisions with commercial vehicles can cause severe and life-changing injuries. Common trauma includes:
- Fractures to the pelvis, legs, and arms
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions
- Spinal injuries and disc damage
- Internal injuries and organ damage
- Severe lacerations and soft tissue injuries

Early and consistent medical care is critical to health and to any future claim. Following provider recommendations, attending follow-up appointments, and documenting symptoms and limitations can support both recovery and the legal process.

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, Avian Law Group is ready to help. Our skilled pedestrian injury lawyers understand how overwhelming it can be to face medical bills, time off work, and lasting trauma after a crash. We’ll investigate your case, protect your rights, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact Avian Law Group today for a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.