Three-wheel bicycle hit by Mercedes-Benz near Butler Road
November 17, 2025 | Bakersfield, CA
An 81-year-old man lost his life following a collision between a vehicle and his three-wheel bicycle in south Bakersfield. Authorities confirmed the incident occurred along Belle Terrace near Butler Road.
Ruben Diza Agbayani, 81, died from injuries after a white Mercedes-Benz struck his three-wheel bicycle in the area of Belle Terrace near Butler Road.
What Happened in the Crash?
The Kern County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Ruben Diza Agbayani. On Nov. 17, a white Mercedes-Benz struck Agbayani while he rode his bicycle in the area. He was rushed to Kern Medical but succumbed to his injuries on Nov. 22.
- Victim: Ruben Diza Agbayani, 81 years old
- Location: Belle Terrace near Butler Road, south Bakersfield, CA
- Date of Incident: Nov. 17, 2025
- Vehicles Involved: White Mercedes-Benz and three-wheel bicycle
- Outcome: Agbayani transported to Kern Medical, and pronounced deceased on November 22
- Driver: Remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators
- Investigating Agency: California Highway Patrol (CHP)
The CHP continues to probe the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Why Do Bicycle Accidents Occur?
Bicyclists face heightened risks on roadways without the safeguards available to motorists, such as seat belts or airbags. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals a troubling trend in these incidents.
Year |
Bicyclist Fatalities in Motor-Vehicle Crashes |
Change from Previous Year |
|---|
2021 |
976 |
Not Available |
2022 |
1,105 |
+13% |
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Factors contributing to such crashes often include failure to yield, speeding, or distracted driving. Understanding these elements is crucial for prevention.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts Candice Bond and Stefano Formica provide perspective on handling bicycle collisions.
“Bicyclists remain especially susceptible on roads, with various elements leading to severe incidents,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “Determining the precise cause of these accidents is essential. Resources like insurance reviews, witnesses, background checks, and witness location aid in thorough examinations. Families receive careful guidance through the process. In cases such as this, prompt independent investigations help preserve vital evidence.”
Key takeaways from the analysis:
- Conduct independent probes early to secure evidence.
- Review insurance policies and applicable coverages.
- Engage witnesses for comprehensive case building.
- Support families navigating legal complexities post-accident.
Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal, added:
“Families grieving losses often face daunting legal steps designed to safeguard their interests. A knowledgeable advocate offers vital support during tough periods, ensuring eligible restitution reaches those affected.”
Pending investigation outcomes, Agbayani's family may pursue a wrongful death claim, potentially covering companionship loss, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
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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).