Lamont, CA – On the evening of Friday, August 22, 2025, a bicycle collision left Justen Cordell Lay, 42, of Bakersfield, dead at the scene, according to KGET.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 8:25 PM on Buena Vista Boulevard west of South Fairfax Road.
Investigators determined that Lay had been riding his bicycle along Buena Vista Boulevard when he entered the path of an oncoming vehicle. The driver struck Lay, causing fatal injuries, before emergency responders arrived. Authorities pronounced him dead at the scene shortly afterward.
The coroner’s office confirmed Lay’s identity and noted that he had been a resident of Bakersfield. Officials notified his next of kin before releasing the information publicly.
The California Highway Patrol continues to review evidence from the scene to determine the exact cause of the crash, including whether lighting, visibility, or speed contributed to the collision. No details regarding the driver’s condition or potential impairment have been released.
Authorities have not announced any arrests or citations. The investigation remains 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.
Comparative Negligence
California Law upholds the concept of Comparative Negligence, which allows more than one party to share blame in a personal injury accident. Injured victims may have their compensation reduced if they are found partially responsible.
California Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Bicycle Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
