Airport Drive at El Tejon Avenue: a car struck a girl on an electric scooter inside a marked crosswalk equipped with warning lights
OILDALE, CALIFORNIA (October 4, 2026): A girl riding an electric scooter was killed Sunday afternoon, October 4, when a car struck her inside a marked crosswalk on Airport Drive at El Tejon Avenue in Oildale, north of Bakersfield, according to the California Highway Patrol, as reported by BakersfieldNow. The CHP was called at about 4:21 p.m.
According to the CHP’s preliminary investigation, a 34-year-old man was driving a 2007 Kia Rio north on Airport Drive in the number one lane, at a speed that has not been determined, as he approached El Tejon Avenue. The girl entered the roadway within the crosswalk at a designated pedestrian crossing with signs and warning lights, and the front of the Kia struck her. Emergency crews pronounced her dead at the scene. Her age and name have not been released.
The driver stopped and cooperated with investigators, and the CHP said alcohol or drugs do not appear to have been factors. The crash remains under investigation, and anyone with information can call the CHP Bakersfield office at 661-396-6600.
Liability for the Oildale Crosswalk Crash
California Vehicle Code § 21950 requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing within a marked or unmarked crosswalk and to slow down or take other action to protect them. Vehicle Code § 22350 prohibits speeds that are unsafe for conditions, and Civil Code § 1714 makes every driver responsible for harm caused by a lack of ordinary care. Based on what the CHP has released, the questions include:
- The marked crossing: The CHP said the girl entered within a crosswalk at a crossing with signs and warning lights. Whether the lights were activated and visible will be an important fact.
- Speed approaching the crossing: The CHP has not determined the Kia’s speed. Vehicle data and witness accounts can show whether the driver slowed for the crossing.
- An electric scooter in a crosswalk: How the law treats a young rider on an electric scooter at a pedestrian crossing is a question the investigation and any civil claim will address.
- Crossing design: If the crossing’s lighting, signage or placement contributed, the public agency responsible for Airport Drive may share responsibility under Government Code § 835.
The girl’s parents may bring a wrongful death claim under Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60. That civil claim is separate from any decision about criminal charges, and the driver’s auto insurance is usually the first source of recovery.
Steps to Take After an Oildale Crosswalk Crash
Children on foot and on small wheeled devices are especially vulnerable when struck by a car, even at moderate speeds, which is why marked crossings near neighborhoods matter. Families should preserve evidence early, while it is still available.
- Request the CHP report: Ask the CHP Bakersfield office for the case number and the Traffic Collision Report once it is complete.
- Keep the scooter and helmet: Do not repair or discard the scooter or any safety gear. Their damage can show the point and angle of impact.
- Ask about the warning lights: Records for the crossing’s warning lights, including whether they were working that afternoon, can be requested from the responsible agency.
- Seek support: The California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB) and local grief resources may help families after the loss of a child.
Wrongful death claims generally must be filed within two years under Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. If Kern County or another public agency is responsible for the crossing, a government claim is generally due within six months under Government Code § 911.2. Contact an attorney promptly to protect your rights.
Investigating the Oildale Crosswalk Crash
We at Carrazco Law, A.P.C. extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the girl who lost her life on Airport Drive. Important questions remain: Were the crossing’s warning lights activated when she entered the crosswalk? And how fast was the Kia traveling as it approached El Tejon Avenue?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car, truck or pedestrian accident anywhere in California, our personal injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and legal options. Call us anytime at (800) 541-3244. Se Habla Español. Free consultation.
Published on October 5, 2026 by M.M., Carrazco Law, A.P.C. The incident described in this article occurred on October 4, 2026.
