Bakersfield, CA – The Kern County Coroner’s Office has identified 62-year-old Jorge Adan Machuca of Maricopa as the driver who lost his life after crashing into a canal on the evening of Saturday, January 17, 2026, according to KBAK.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the collision occurred at approximately 5:53 PM on Herring Road, west of Highway 99. Officers were dispatched to the area following reports of a single vehicle that had left the roadway and entered a canal.
CHP officials stated that Machuca was the sole occupant and driver of a 2008 Toyota Prius traveling westbound on Herring Road. Investigators noted that the area was experiencing heavy fog at the time of the crash, which may have affected visibility.
According to a preliminary investigation, the Toyota crossed over the eastbound lane and traveled onto the dirt shoulder of the roadway for reasons that have not yet been determined. The vehicle then continued in a southwesterly direction before overturning into a water-filled canal adjacent to the road.
Emergency personnel responded to the scene, where Machuca was pronounced dead. The Kern County Coroner’s Office later confirmed his identity and residence.
The California Highway Patrol said the investigation remains ongoing as officers work to determine the full circumstances of the crash. Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Bakersfield CHP office.
Wrongful Death Claims & Comparative Negligence
Determining fault in a collision can involve multiple factors, and under California’s Comparative Negligence rule, several parties can share partial responsibility.
Should someone else be found even partly responsible for the death, the family may be able to file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide compensation to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income to support the family of the deceased.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
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.
Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
