The collision occurred on SR-99 northbound near the Avenue 24 off-ramp at approximately 8:16 a.m., CHP confirmed.
Bakersfield, CA – Several people were injured in a massive multi-vehicle crash involving more than 60 vehicles on State Route 99 northbound near Earlimart on Saturday morning, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
The collision occurred on SR-99 northbound near the Avenue 24 off-ramp at approximately 8:16 a.m., CHP confirmed.
CHP reports indicate that the incident began as a 15-vehicle traffic collision that rapidly expanded, eventually involving an estimated 60 to 80 vehicles, including multiple passenger vehicles, pickup trucks, trailers, and several big rigs. Authorities documented numerous secondary collisions in both the northbound and southbound lanes as traffic came to a sudden stop.
CHP confirmed that several people were injured in the crash. The number and severity of injuries were not immediately released. No fatalities were reported, and no arrests were announced in connection with the incident.
The cause of the crash has not been determined and remains under investigation. CHP logs noted reduced visibility and traffic congestion, which may have contributed to the chain-reaction collisions.
CHP officers responded to the scene along with multiple fire, emergency medical, and law enforcement agencies. Caltrans was requested for full freeway closures, debris removal, sweeping operations, and traffic control, while emergency crews worked on foot due to gridlocked traffic.
The crash caused extensive traffic impacts throughout the region, prompting full closures of SR-99 in both directions, multiple on-ramp and off-ramp closures, and long traffic backups stretching several miles. Motorists were diverted through surface streets in and around Earlimart, and traffic remained heavily impacted for several hours.
The Bakersfield-area crash remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol as authorities continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the large-scale collision.
Safety Advisory for Motorists During Dense Tule Fog in the San Joaquin Valley
Dense tule fog has once again smothered the San Joaquin Valley, creating extremely hazardous driving conditions marked by sudden, near-zero visibility. During these conditions, all road users—especially drivers and commercial truck operators—are urged to exercise heightened caution.
Motorists should slow down well below posted speed limits, increase following distances, and be prepared to stop suddenly. Use low-beam headlights only; high beams reflect off the fog and significantly reduce visibility. If visibility becomes too poor to safely continue, drivers should exit the roadway when possible and avoid stopping on travel lanes or shoulders, where vehicles are at high risk of being struck.
Truck drivers are reminded that large vehicles require longer stopping distances and are particularly vulnerable in chain-reaction collisions during fog events. Commercial operators should reduce speed early, maintain extra spacing, and avoid sudden lane changes. If forced to stop, ensure hazard lights are activated and move as far from active lanes as possible.
All drivers should remain alert for stopped or disabled vehicles, especially on freeways where fog may hide traffic backups until the last moment. Avoid using cruise control, stay focused on the roadway, and monitor traffic and weather updates before and during travel.
Dense tule fog can form and dissipate rapidly, making conditions unpredictable. Road users are encouraged to delay travel when possible until visibility improves. Law enforcement and transportation agencies continue to urge caution, reminding the public that no destination is worth risking a serious injury or loss of life during extreme fog conditions.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a multi-vehicle accident, it’s important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An accident attorney will help protect your rights, guide you through the claims process, and ensure you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact a trusted car accident lawyer today to discuss your legal options.