Bakersfield, CA – On the night of Saturday, March 29, 2025, 58-year-old Bakersfield woman Lisa Ann Jones was fatally injured in a pedestrian collision, according to KGET.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the accident took place around 10:45 PM at the intersection of South Union Avenue and White Lane.
Jones was later identified by the Kern County Coroner’s Office. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators determined that Jones had been walking westbound across South Union Avenue, outside of a marked crosswalk, when she was struck by a southbound vehicle.
The driver, a 17-year-old boy operating a 2025 Lexus IS 350F, was traveling at approximately 44 MPH in the number one lane when the collision occurred. Neither the Lexus driver nor his passengers received any injuries in the crash. Authorities reported that the driver initially fled the scene but later returned and spoke with officers.
Investigators do not believe alcohol or drugs played a role for the driver, though it is unclear if impairment was a factor for Jones.
Southbound lanes of South Union Avenue were closed for several hours while CHP conducted an investigation. Traffic control units assisted at the scene, and the fire department was contacted regarding roadway cleanup.
Authorities have not announced any charges against the driver. The investigation remains ongoing.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway 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 pedestrian 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.
Partial Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
California Law does not consider pedestrians to have the right-of-way under all circumstances, such as if they attempt to cross outside of a crosswalk. However, motorists are never relieved of the expectation to provide pedestrians with a Duty of Care toward their safety.
It may therefore be determined that a motorist is subject to only partial liability in a pedestrian accident. Should that be the case, they would be financially responsible for the victim’s recovery costs in proportion to their degree of liability.
Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
