It has been a dangerous road for Northwest residents and when the new stoplight went up many thought it would make things safer. Yet, drivers are still caught off guard by it.

Residents around the area said from the moment construction started until now, there have been quite a few accidents and many close calls.

Bakersfield Police Department said there have been several accidents on this stretch since the construction has started.

Ashlyn Dowling lives near the intersection, and said driving west on Hageman toward the light is difficult because there are trees lining the entire right side of the road. 

"I was in traffic before driving behind another car and they stopped and unfortunately it was about 5:30 during sunset and the way the sun set over it, it was really hard to see," she said. "They came to a dead stop and I've got a truck barreling behind at you know, 45, 50 miles an hour."

Residents said they hoped this new light would be better when it comes to monitoring traffic.