Bakersfield, CA – On the late night of Sunday, June 15, 2025, a vehicle-vs-bicycle collision caused fatal injuries to Carissa Marie Sileo, 34, according to KGET.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 11:35 PM on Roberts Lane, east of Plymouth Avenue.
Investigators say Sileo was riding a bicycle eastbound on Roberts Lane when she entered the roadway outside of a marked crosswalk and directly into the path of a westbound 2013 Chevrolet Impala driven by a man identified only as 21 years old.
The driver was reportedly traveling between 35 and 40 MPH, the posted speed limit, when the front of his vehicle struck the right side of Sileo’s bicycle. The area was unlit, and the bicycle was not equipped with lights or reflective gear.
Sileo was ejected from the bicycle and pronounced dead at the scene at 11:38 PM. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. The investigation is ongoing.
Bicycle Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards bicyclists, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for bicyclists with whom they share the road and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a bicycle accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
Should the at-fault driver avoid legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
