Deadly Head-On Collision Reported on I-5 Freeway

Two semi-trucks crashed head-on in Bakersfield on Monday morning, killing both drivers. 

The wreck took place on July 11th at 3:29 a.m. within the southbound lanes of the I-5 Freeway.

According to CHP, the 44-year-old driver of a Freightliner was driving north before crossing into the southbound lanes. He has been identified as Manuel Velasquez Garcia, fo Montclair. 

As a result, the truck collided head-on with a Kenworth truck, operated by Ricardo Gomez Perez, 54, of Healdsburg. 

Sadly, both drivers were declared dead at the scene. 

Authorities also shut down the freeway for several hours pending cleanup and investigation. 

JT Legal Group sends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Manuel Garcia and Ricardo Perez.

Head-on collisions are without a doubt the most dangerous types of crashes. They may only account for 2% of accidents, however they make up 10% of all deadly crashes. 

The Fatal Analysis Reporting System (FARS) has found that: 

• 75% of head-on crashes happen in rural areas
• They are most common on two-lane highways
• Failure in negotiating a curve on the road causes 23% of all fatal head-on collisions
• 58% of head-on collisions result in a fatality 

It is also important to remember that in the state of California a person involved in a car accident who has sustained injuries has to file a claim within two years of the accident. 

If you or a loved one need legal help following an accident, contact JT Legal Group at (888) 529-3111.