[07-27-2025] Kern County, CA – One Killed, Driver Arrested After DUI Crash on Fairfax Road in Bakersfield

One person was killed, and a driver was arrested for DUI after a crash in Bakersfield early Sunday morning, July 27, 2025.

According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the crash occurred around 12:30 a.m. in the 7900 block of Fairfax Road. Juan R., 40, of Bakersfield, was driving a pickup southbound when it drifted into the northbound lane and collided with a silver car.

The driver of the car was pronounced dead at the scene, while Juan suffered minor injuries. There were no other occupants in either vehicle.

Juan was arrested on suspicion of DUI and vehicular manslaughter-related offenses after being medically cleared. The incident remains under investigation.

Contact Our DUI Accident Lawyers In Bakersfield, CA

Losing a loved one in a crash caused by an impaired driver can be an incredibly traumatic experience. Families often face emotional and financial challenges as they try to cope with the sudden loss and deal with the aftermath of the incident. Understanding your legal rights and options may help clarify the steps that could be taken during this difficult time.

Our DUI accident lawyers in Bakersfield are available to help you understand the potential legal avenues that may be open to you. We can assist with reviewing the incident details, investigating the cause of the crash, and exploring what compensation options might be available for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost wages, and other damages.

If your family has been affected by a fatal DUI crash, you may contact us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

Steps To Take After A Fatal DUI Crash

When a fatal DUI crash occurs, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your loved one’s rights and consider the potential legal actions that could be taken.

1. Seek Medical Attention
   If you or anyone involved in the crash has been injured, ensure medical attention is received immediately. Even minor injuries should be evaluated to ensure they are properly documented and treated.
2. Gather Information And Document the Scene
   If you are physically able, document the scene of the accident. Take photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible damage or injuries. If there are any witnesses, gather their contact details as their statements may provide valuable insight.
3. Track Medical And Funeral Expenses
   Be sure to keep a detailed record of medical treatments, funeral costs, and any other expenses incurred due to the accident. These documents will be important for pursuing compensation.
4. Consult With DUI Accident Victim Lawyers
   Consulting with a lawyer experienced in DUI accidents can help you understand your legal rights and potential options. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, help investigate the cause of the accident, and assist in seeking compensation for your losses.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

Drunk driving continues to be a major cause of deadly crashes in the United States. In 2021, about 31 percent of all traffic deaths involved a driver who had been drinking. That means nearly one out of every three fatal crashes was linked to alcohol use.

Between 2020 and 2021, the number of people killed in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers went up by 14.2 percent, rising from 11,718 to 13,384 deaths. In comparison, total traffic deaths increased by 10.1 percent during the same time period.

In 2021, there were around 60,904 drivers involved in deadly car crashes. Of those, an estimated 12,762 drivers (21 percent) had a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit.

Motorcycle riders had the highest percentage of alcohol involvement in fatal crashes. About 28 percent of motorcyclists in deadly collisions had been drinking, followed by 24 percent of passenger car drivers, 20 percent of light truck drivers, and 3 percent of large truck drivers.

Tragically, alcohol-related crashes also affected children. Out of the 1,184 children aged 14 and younger who died in traffic crashes in 2021, 25 percent (294 children) were killed in crashes involving drunk drivers.