Bakersfield, California (October 25, 2025) — Authorities have identified the bicyclist killed early Saturday morning in a south Bakersfield collision as Eduardo Godinez, 31, according to the Kern County Coroner’s Office.
Incident Details: The fatal crash occurred around 3:42 a.m. on October 25 in the 5900 block of South Union Avenue. According to the California Highway Patrol, Godinez was riding southbound in the #2 lane when he was struck by a 2017 gray Nissan Altima driven by a 32-year-old woman traveling in the same direction.
Investigators said the driver noticed the bicyclist but was unable to avoid impact. Emergency responders pronounced Eduardo Godinez dead at the scene. The driver stayed and cooperated with law enforcement, and no arrests or citations were reported at the time of the crash.
Traffic along South Union Avenue was temporarily blocked while officers documented the scene and cleared debris from the roadway.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol’s Bakersfield Area Office is leading the investigation. Authorities are examining visibility conditions, potential lighting issues, and whether the bicyclist was wearing reflective gear or using required lights.
CHP officers will also assess whether driver distraction, speed, or roadway design contributed to the collision. Toxicology results for both parties are pending, though no impairment is suspected at this time.
Crashes during early morning often involve limited visibility, making it difficult for motorists to see bicyclists sharing the road. To accurately reconstruct the event and determine liability, investigators are actively seeking and reviewing various forms of evidence. This includes dashcam footage from nearby vehicles, surveillance video from nearby cameras, and detailed statements from witnesses who may have observed the collision or its immediate aftermath.
Legal Considerations: California bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. Drivers are required to maintain a safe distance and exercise caution when approaching cyclists, particularly in dark or poorly lit conditions.
If investigators determine that the motorist failed to take reasonable precautions, such as reducing speed or maintaining a safe following distance, the driver may be found negligent. Surviving family members of Mr. Godinez may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim, seeking compensation for funeral expenses, emotional trauma, and the loss of companionship.
I send my heartfelt condolences to the Godinez family and loved ones during this sudden and heartbreaking loss.
Source: KGET