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1300+A 55-year-old Avenal man was killed Wednesday morning in a two-vehicle crash on Highway 46 near Wasco State Prison in Kern County. The California Highway Patrol responded to the scene at Highway 46 and Wildwood Road at approximately 6:15 a.m. on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.
What Happened on Highway 46 and Wildwood Road
According to CHP’s preliminary investigation, a 43-year-old Wasco man was driving a 2026 Ford F-350 westbound on Highway 46. As he attempted to turn southbound onto Wildwood Road, he failed to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic.
At the same time, the 55-year-old Avenal man was driving a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado eastbound on Highway 46. CHP said the Ford turned directly into the path of the Chevrolet, and the Silverado driver was unable to take evasive action. The front of the Ford struck the side of the Chevrolet.
Injuries Reported in the Crash
The driver of the Chevrolet sustained severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Ford sustained minor injuries and was taken to Kern Medical for treatment.
CHP has not yet determined whether alcohol or drugs were a factor in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact CHP Bakersfield at (661) 396-6600.
Right-of-Way Violations and Left-Turn Accidents in California
When it comes to California’s right-of-way laws, the failure-to-yield crashes, like the one on Highway 46, are among the most common causes of serious and fatal collisions on California highways. Drivers making left turns or turning across oncoming lanes of traffic are required by law to yield the right-of-way until it is safe to proceed.
When a driver misjudges the speed or distance of oncoming traffic, the results can be catastrophic for the other motorist, who often has little to no time to react.
Contact a Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer
Losing a loved one in a preventable traffic collision is devastating, and families are often left with questions about how the crash happened and what options they have.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a serious car accident in Kern County, the Bakersfield pedestrian accident attorneys at our personal injury law firm are available to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer today for a free consultation.
About the Author
JEFFREY FAYNGOR, ESQ.
Jeffrey Fayngor is the founder of Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer and an experienced personal injury attorney dedicated to representing accident victims. He earned his J.D. from Whittier College School of Law and has recovered over $120 million for injured clients. He has built his practice around helping injury victims protect their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.