Serious Crash in Bakersfield Injures One Driver

South Union Avenue and Watts Drive Crash in Bakersfield Leaves One Seriously Injured

Overview of the Collision
A serious traffic collision occurred on Monday afternoon, November 17, 2025, in Bakersfield, California. At approximately 2:30 PM, first responders were dispatched to the 2000 block of South Union Avenue near the intersection with Watts Drive following reports of a possible head-on impact between a white Dodge Charger and a white tow truck. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) indicated that at least one individual sustained major injuries consistent with a high-force crash and was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for emergency care.

While the exact sequence of events remains under active investigation, initial reports suggest significant front-end damage and debris in the roadway. Traffic was disrupted in both directions, and at least one lane was temporarily blocked while authorities secured the area, assisted the injured, and coordinated cleanup efforts.

What We Know So Far
- Time and location: Around 2:30 PM, 2000 block of South Union Avenue near Watts Drive.
- Vehicles involved: A white Dodge Charger and a white tow truck.
- Injuries: At least one person suffered serious trauma and was transported for medical treatment.
- Traffic impact: Lane closures and delays while first responders worked the scene.
- Investigation: CHP has not yet released a determination as to fault or cause.

Understanding Possible Causes Under Investigation
Head-on or near head-on collisions are often complex events influenced by multiple factors. While CHP has not announced a cause, common contributing circumstances in similar collisions can include:
- Unsafe passing or lane departures
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
- Distracted driving (including mobile device use)
- Impaired driving (alcohol, drugs, or certain medications)
- Mechanical failures such as brake or steering issues
- Fatigue or inattention
- Roadway conditions, poor visibility, or debris

When a tow truck is involved, investigators may also evaluate commercial driving factors, such as vehicle maintenance records, the driver’s qualifications, hours-of-service compliance, and whether any cargo or equipment contributed to the event. Investigators typically review scene measurements, vehicle damage profiles, skid marks, event data recorder (EDR) information, and any available surveillance or traffic camera footage. Witness statements are often crucial in reconstructing how the crash unfolded.

Injuries and Immediate Medical Care
High-force collisions often result in serious injuries, including fractures, internal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, spinal harm, and soft-tissue damage. Even injuries that seem minor at first can worsen over hours or days due to adrenaline masking symptoms. Following a collision of this magnitude, prompt medical evaluation is essential. Diagnostic imaging, follow-up visits, and prescribed treatment plans not only support recovery but also create a clear record linking injuries to the crash—documentation that matters for insurance claims and potential legal action.

Traffic Disruptions and Road Safety in the Area
South Union Avenue is a busy corridor in Bakersfield, and collisions in this area can quickly create ripple effects for traffic flow. Lane closures are often necessary for responder safety, medical care, and debris removal. Drivers in the vicinity should reduce speed, heed instructions from law enforcement or traffic control personnel, and consider alternate routes until clearance is announced.

California Law: Comparative Negligence and Your Rights
California uses a comparative negligence system. That means multiple parties can be found partially at fault, and a victim’s compensation can be adjusted according to each party’s percentage of responsibility. Even if an injured person is determined to share some fault, they may still recover compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, property damage, and pain and suffering, reduced by their share of responsibility.

Key issues that frequently arise in crashes like this include:
- Liability for commercial vehicles: If a tow truck driver is involved, their employer may bear responsibility under the doctrine of respondeat superior. Maintenance companies or third parties may also be implicated if a mechanical defect contributed.
- Insurance coverage layers: Commercial policies often have higher liability limits. There may also be coverage through MedPay, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) policies, and additional commercial endorsements.
- Evidence preservation: Promptly securing scene photos, vehicle black box data, dashcam footage, and nearby business surveillance can make a significant difference in determining fault and damages.
- Damages beyond medical bills: Claims may include wage loss, diminished earning capacity, future medical needs, pain and suffering, property loss, and diminished value of a repaired vehicle.

Practical Steps After a Serious Crash
If you or a loved one were involved in this collision—or a similar one—consider the following actions:
- Seek medical care immediately and follow your treatment plan.
- Preserve evidence: Take photographs and videos of the scene, vehicles, and visible injuries when it is safe to do so. Save receipts and medical records.
- Identify witnesses and obtain contact information.
- Avoid discussing fault at the scene or on social media.
- Notify your insurance carrier, but be cautious with recorded statements until you understand your rights.
- Consult a qualified attorney before accepting a quick settlement. Early offers may not reflect the full scope of losses.

This serious crash in Bakersfield, which left a driver injured, is a stark reminder of how quickly roadway conditions and driver decisions can lead to life-altering consequences. Even a single-vehicle or two-vehicle incident can leave victims facing painful injuries, costly medical treatment, and weeks or months of uncertainty. As authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, the injured driver now begins the difficult process of recovery and navigating the challenges that follow a sudden collision.

At Avian Law Group, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a serious crash can be. From dealing with insurance companies to determining liability and securing the compensation needed for medical care and lost wages, victims deserve strong advocacy and clear guidance. Our team is committed to protecting the rights of injured drivers and ensuring they receive the support and justice they are entitled to under California law.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident, Avian Law Group is here to provide experienced representation, compassionate support, and dedicated advocacy every step of the way.