Bakersfield, CA – On the evening of Friday, February 21, 2025, a rollover crash involving a big rig on Highway 58 west of Tehachapi resulted in at least one fatality, according to CHPFatal with additional reporting from KGET.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the accident took place around 6:34 PM on the westbound lanes of Highway 58, near mile marker 88.
Officials say a white big rig overturned on its side along the right-hand shoulder. Initial reports indicated the vehicle was partially blocking the roadway. Emergency crews, including the Kern County Fire Department and Caltrans, responded to the scene.
Authorities confirmed that one person was pronounced dead at the crash site. A hard closure of the westbound No. 2 lane was implemented for recovery and cleanup efforts. The California Department of Transportation worked to manage traffic control, but technical issues delayed the activation of changeable message signs.
The Kern County Coroner’s Office was notified and arrived later in the evening. Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the crash. The incident remains under investigation.
Single-Vehicle Collisions & Comparative Negligence
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages.
California Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
