[05-07-2025] Kern County, CA – Driver Killed, Another Injured in Suspected DUI Crash on Highway 43 South of Dresser Avenue Near Wasco

A driver was killed following a suspected DUI crash near Wasco on Wednesday evening, May 7, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash was reported at around 6:30 p.m. on Highway 43 south of Dresser Avenue.

Investigators said the driver of a GMC Yukon was traveling northbound at over 80 mph when they lost control and collided with a parked pickup truck towing a trailer. The GMC Yukon overturned, ejecting the driver.

Authorities stated that the driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The occupant of the parked pickup truck was not seriously injured.

Alcohol is believed to have been a factor in the crash. The identity of the deceased driver will be released at a later time.

The incident remains under investigation.

Get The Legal Help You Need From Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers In Wasco, CA

When a driver chooses to get behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the consequences can be devastating. These reckless decisions often lead to life-altering accidents, leaving victims with painful injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial losses. If you were injured in a DUI-related crash, you need a legal team that will take immediate action to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

At Arash Law, our Wasco DUI accident attorneys are ready to step in and support you through every stage of the legal process. From securing police reports to gathering medical records and negotiating with insurance companies, we take care of the details so you can focus on recovery.

We understand how overwhelming this experience can be. That’s why we approach every case with compassion, clarity, and the drive to get results. With over $750 million recovered for injury victims across California, our firm has built a strong reputation for advocacy and success.

Call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you move forward with confidence.

Ways To Protect Yourself After Being A Victim of A DUI Accident

Accidents leave victims shocked and confused about what to do. However, taking specific steps following a DUI accident is crucial to protect your rights and maximize your chances of recovering damages. Our DUI accident victim attorneys highly recommend that you follow these steps:

1. Remain At The Accident Scene. You may move your car to the side of the road to avoid further incidents, but you should not think about leaving. California law requires all individuals involved in a traffic collision to stay, regardless of who’s at fault. Otherwise, you may face hit-and-run charges.
2. Obtain Prompt Medical Care. Call 911 if you or someone else sustains an injury. Receiving immediate medical attention on-site will help prevent complications. Moreover, this will allow you to document the physical damage you incurred, giving insurance companies no chance to downplay your claim.
3. Contact The Nearest Local Police Department. Responding officers will investigate the scene and conduct field sobriety tests. They will also draft an accident report, which can support your case later.
4. Collect Evidence. Take photos and videos of the accident scene, the sustained injuries, and the wrecked vehicles. Furthermore, write down essential information, such as the other parties’ names, addresses, contact numbers, and insurance details. You may also request witnesses to provide testimonies.
5. Inform The Insurance Company. Provide them with the basic details about the incident. However, be cautious of what you share, as they may use your words to their advantage.
6. Consult Arash Law. Our injury lawyers for DUI accident victims will explain your rights and guide you through the process of holding the intoxicated driver accountable. We will also negotiate with insurers, ensuring you get maximum compensation.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that in 2020, 11,654 people were killed in traffic crashes involving at least one alcohol-impaired driver. These fatalities made up 30% of all traffic deaths in the United States that year, reflecting a 14.3% increase from 2019, when 10,196 similar deaths were recorded.

On average, one person died in an alcohol-related crash every 45 minutes in 2020.

Drivers between the ages of 21 and 24, as well as those aged 25 to 34, were most frequently involved in fatal crashes related to alcohol impairment. Each group accounted for 26% of alcohol-impaired drivers involved in deadly collisions.

Motorcyclists made up the largest share of alcohol-impaired drivers in fatal crashes at 27%, followed by passenger car drivers at 23%, light truck drivers at 19%, and large truck drivers at 3%.

Out of 1,093 traffic fatalities involving children aged 14 and younger in 2020, 229 deaths — or 21% — occurred in crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver.