BAKERSFIELD, Kern County, Calif., Oct. 24, 2026 — A driver was injured on Friday morning, October 23, after a hit-and-run incident sent a vehicle through a roadside fence and into a field along southbound Highway 99 near Herring Road.
The California Highway Patrol said the driver of a black Nissan swerved to avoid another vehicle and lost control. The Nissan reportedly left the roadway, went through a fence on the right shoulder, and came to a stop in an adjacent field. Investigators described it as a possible non-contact collision, meaning the vehicles may not have struck each other directly.
The incident is being investigated as a misdemeanor hit-and-run under California law, since the other vehicle involved did not stop at the scene. Responders requested that the vehicle be moved to the right shoulder as a traffic hazard while they worked the scene.
Emergency crews were called to treat injuries reported at the scene. The extent of those injuries has not been released. The search for the second vehicle and its driver remains active, and no description beyond "possible non-contact" has been made public.
The California Highway Patrol has not released further details on the cause of the crash or whether charges have been filed. The investigation continues.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
Crash Reports and Road Safety in Bakersfield, CA
This crash happened at Highway 99 and Herring Road in Bakersfield, CA. Readers following crash news in Kern County can find city-level information on our guide to crashes in Bakersfield, CA, including how to request a report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do most traffic accidents happen?
Many crashes occur on highways and major roads during peak travel times, usually where vehicles are merging, changing lanes, or traveling at higher speeds.
What should I do if another driver causes a crash and leaves the scene?
Try to note the other vehicle's description, direction of travel, and any partial license plate information if it's safe to do so. Report the hit-and-run to police as soon as possible and seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor.
What injuries are common in highway crashes involving sudden swerving or rollovers?
Drivers and passengers usually suffer whiplash, back injuries, or injuries from being thrown against the interior of the vehicle. Some injuries, such as concussions, may not be immediately obvious and require evaluation.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Crash in Bakersfield, CA
If you're involved in a hit-and-run, try to move to a safe location and call 911 right away. Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional, since adrenaline can mask pain from injuries that surface later. Write down what you remember about the other vehicle while it's fresh, including color, type, and direction of travel. File a report with local law enforcement and keep a copy for your records. If your vehicle needs towing or repair, document the damage with photos before it's moved, and follow up with the investigating agency for updates on the search for the other driver.
