[03-06-2026] Kern County, CA – Man Killed in Crash with Freightliner on Highway 43 Near Shafter

A man is dead following a crash with a Freightliner on Highway 43 near Shafter in Kern County on Friday morning, March 6, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash was reported just before 5:00 a.m. on Highway 43, near Orange Street. 

CHP said a man driving a Toyota was traveling southbound on Highway 43 when he collided with a Freightliner, which was traveling at 15 to 20 miles per hour while towing double trailers.

The driver of the Toyota was unable to stop in time and struck the Freightliner, becoming pinned inside his vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and it is unknown whether alcohol or drugs were factors.

Anyone with information regarding the crash is asked to contact CHP at (661) 396-6600.

What A Lawyer Can Do For You

Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.