BAKERSFIELD, Kern County, Calif., Nov. 12, 2026 — A pedestrian suffered major injuries early Tuesday morning, November 10, after being struck by a car on Merle Haggard Drive, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The collision was reported around 1:04 a.m. near Merle Haggard Drive and Wings Way. A red Toyota two-door was reportedly traveling in the westbound lane when it struck the pedestrian. The driver who called in the crash reportedly told dispatchers she was too frightened to get out of the vehicle and check on the person who was hit.
Fire crews and medics were sent to the scene, and the CHP upgraded the incident from a routine collision report to a "major injury" classification within the first quarter hour. The pedestrian was later moved from the scene to a hospital, though further details on the person's condition have not been released.
The crash remains under investigation. Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
Local Crash Information for Bakersfield, CA
This pedestrian crash happened at Merle Haggard Drive and Wings Way in Bakersfield, CA. For more on crashes in Bakersfield, including local crash figures, trauma care and how to request a police report, visit our guide to crashes in Bakersfield, CA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
In most states, including California, pedestrians in a marked or unmarked crosswalk generally have the right of way over turning or through traffic. Drivers are required to stop and let them finish crossing safely.
What can drivers do to avoid hitting someone on foot, especially at night?
Slowing down near intersections, scanning both sides of the road before turning, and keeping headlights and windshields clean can all improve how quickly a driver spots someone walking in low light.
What injuries commonly result from pedestrian collisions?
Head trauma, broken bones, spinal injuries and internal injuries are common, since a person on foot has no protection from the impact of a vehicle.
