[08-17-2023] Kern County, CA – Man Killed, Woman Injured Following DUI Two-Vehicle Collision in Bakersfield

A man was killed, while a woman was severely injured after a DUI two-vehicle collision in Bakersfield on Thursday evening, August 17, 2023.

According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the incident occurred near the intersection of California and Chester Avenues at around 10:39 p.m.

There was a collision between a sedan driving northbound on Chester Avenue and a pickup driving westbound on California Avenue. Investigations are being conducted to determine the cause of the crash.

The sedan occupants were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, the passenger was later pronounced dead, while the woman remains in critical condition. The truck’s drunk driver was uninjured but taken to Kern Medical to be evaluated.

Luis E., a 48-year-old Bakersfield man, was arrested for DUI, vehicular manslaughter, and driving with a suspended license.

No information was released regarding the victim’s identities.

Dedicated DUI Accident Victim Lawyers in Bakersfield, Kern County

A drunk driver can be sued for damages if the driver causes an accident that injures you or a loved one. It is common for victims of such crimes to experience financial hardships, including lost wages, medical expenses, and other problems.

Our experienced legal team is committed to supporting and assisting DUI accident victims. Drivers should be held accountable if they choose to drive under the influence. Getting behind the wheel when intoxicated puts the safety of others at risk.

You can rely on our most trusted Bakersfield DUI accident victim lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to help you with the insurance claim or effectively represent you in court proceedings. Our firm has recovered over $500 Million for California clients and is widely acknowledged for its tenacity and success as one of California’s leading personal injury law firms.

If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What to Do After a DUI Accident

Accidents caused by drunk driving can cause psychological and physical harm. What should you do after the incident to ensure your safety and defend your rights? After a DUI-related accident, follow these steps:

1. Do Not Admit or Accept the Blame: It’s important to avoid accepting or admitting fault for the accident, as this could harm your case and affect your ability to receive compensation for damages.
2. Do Not Make a Statement: Avoid making any statements about the incident without consulting with an attorney, as these statements could be used against you in legal proceedings.
3. Avoid Early Settlement Negotiations: Avoid settling too early, as this could result in a lower compensation amount. It’s essential to clearly understand the extent of your damages before considering any settlement offers.
4. Sign Documents only after consulting with an attorney to protect your rights before signing any documents.
5. Work Through Your California drunk driving accident victim lawyer: Work with an experienced DUI accident lawyer to navigate the legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation for damages. Your attorney can help you understand your legal options and represent you in court if necessary.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Fatal DUI Accident Statistics

The crime of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries severe legal and financial consequences, no matter what the drugs are, whether they are prescription medications, illegal drugs, or marijuana. For first-time offenders, the associated costs can reach up to $10,000; in California, an offense is estimated to cost approximately $13,500.

According to the Office of Traffic Safety, disturbingly, in 2018, 42% of drivers involved in fatal accidents tested positive for drugs, and this percentage continues to rise each year.

In an effort to reduce injury and fatalities due to drunk driving in California, the Office of Traffic Safety and a number of stakeholders are actively raising awareness.