The accident was reported around 8 p.m. on westbound State Route 58 at exit 172 near Mojave-Barstow Highway.
Mojave, CA – At least one person died in a traffic collision that happened Sunday night in Mojave, as per the California Highway Patrol logs.
The accident was reported around 8 p.m., December 21, on westbound State Route 58 at exit 172 near Mojave-Barstow Highway.
Authorities were first notified about a car that was recklessly driving, swerving all over the roadway. Moments later, a traffic accident was reported in the area.
First responders found a Chevrolet Malibu and a jackknifed semi-truck at the scene.
At least one person was killed in the accident, as per the report.
Details about the manner of the crash and the exact number of vehicles involved were not available.
About 170 gallons of diesel spilled into the roadway, prompting Caltrans to respond and close traffic lanes for an extended period.
An investigation into the collision is ongoing.
Kern County consistently experiences a higher traffic fatality rate compared to both the state and national averages. The fatality rate per 100,000 residents in Kern County is nearly double the national rate and more than double California’s rate. While overall crash numbers fluctuate, serious safety issues persist, particularly regarding pedestrian and DUI-related incidents. A significant area of concern is pedestrian safety, with 55 pedestrian fatalities reported in 2024, the fourth consecutive year exceeding 50 deaths. The City of Bakersfield, the county seat, has been ranked as the fourth most dangerous nationwide for pedestrians. Driving under the influence (DUI) remains a major problem, with nearly 6,000 related crashes resulting in 263 fatalities and over 3,500 injuries between 2019 and mid-2024. Intersection-related crashes are also disproportionately high in Kern County, with a rate 32.41% higher than the average across all California counties. The most common and deadly type of intersection crash is a broadside collision, often resulting from “Right of Way” violations, which account for nearly two-thirds of all fatal intersection incidents.
Seek Legal Help from Pacific Attorney Group
If you lost your loved one in this traffic collision and believe someone else was responsible, you could file for a wrongful death claim. Visit our car accident death page to learn more about your legal options.