Bakersfield Crash Leaves 2 Dead, 2 Injured
Two people are dead and two others are seriously injured after an early morning car accident in Bakersfield, California.
About the Fatal Car Accident
According to KBAK News, the accident occurred around 5:13 am at the intersection of White Lane and Mountain Vista Drive.
Preliminary reports indicate Austin Michael Harrelson18, was driving a 2005 Dodge Neon when he lost control of the vehicle and struck a light pole. Harrelson and his passenger, Nathan Cruz Lopez, 18, were pronounced dead at the scene.
To other occupants of the vehicle, both female, were injured in the collision. Fortunately, neither woman’s injuries were considered life-threatening.
Authorities are investigating the incident and have ordered a toxicology report; however, Police Sgt. Joe Grubbs noted that it could be months before the toxicology report is completed.
National Auto Accident Statistics
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recorded 33,561 traffic fatalities in 2012 – a 3.3-percent increase from the 32,479 deaths recorded in 2011.
- 10,322 of the 2012 fatalities were attributed to collisions in which a driver was under the influence of alcohol.
- An additional 2,362,000 people were injured in auto accidents in 2012.