Authorities say Godinez was hit by a 2017 gray Nissan Altima in Bakersfield
October 25, 2025 | Bakersfield, CA
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A 31-year-old Bakersfield man lost his life in a bicycle collision early Saturday morning on Union Avenue in south Bakersfield.
Authorities identified the victim as Eduardo Godinez, a father of two and the only child of his parents, who was struck by a vehicle while cycling.
Eduardo Godinez, 31, of Bakersfield, died after a 2017 gray Nissan Altima struck his bicycle on Union Avenue in Kern County.
What Happened in the Crash?
The incident took place around 3:42 a.m. on October 25, 2025, on Union Avenue south of Fairview Road.
- Victim: Eduardo Godinez, 31, of Bakersfield
- Vehicle Involved: 2017 gray Nissan Altima
- Driver: 32-year-old woman traveling southbound
- Speed: About 45 to 50 mph in the No. 2 lane
- Circumstances: The bicyclist rode in the same direction as the vehicle; the driver attempted to swerve but could not avoid the collision
- Outcome: Godinez sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene
Authorities continue to investigate the crash.
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Bicycle riders often face heightened dangers on roadways built mainly for cars. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show a rise in such fatalities nationwide.
Year |
Bicyclist Fatalities |
Change from Previous Year |
Source |
|---|
2023 |
1,166 |
Up 4.4% |
NHTSA |
This marks the highest number of bicyclist deaths in the United States since at least 1980.
Expert Insights
National legal analysts Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal, and Stefano Formica, Of Counsel with Bond Legal, offer guidance on crashes involving bicycles.
“Bicyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, and many factors can contribute to serious crashes,” said Bond, an experienced bicycle accident attorney.
Key takeaways from Bond:
- Determine the exact cause of these types of accidents through thorough review
- Hire expert witnesses and locate key individuals to build a strong case
- Guide families through the process with care
Bond noted that in cases such as this, it is important to have an independent investigation conducted sooner than later to preserve any evidence. “In addition to a police report, an attorney will carefully review what may have contributed to the crash.”
“Grieving families of victims are sometimes overwhelmed by the legal processes that are in place to protect their rights,” said Formica. “An attorney can be a valuable and compassionate resource to help guide a family during this difficult time, and ensure that those left behind receive the restitution they are entitled to.”
Families in similar situations may pursue a wrongful death claim for losses including companionship and emotional distress.
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(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has experience with fatal bicycle accidents. She offers free consultations to those in need of legal guidance.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).