[08-24-2025] Kern County, CA – Woman Killed, Two Others Injured in Suspected DUI Crash at Panama Lane and Stine Road in Bakersfield

A woman in her 20s was killed and two others were injured in a suspected DUI crash in Bakersfield early Sunday, August 24, 2025.

According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the collision happened around 1:20 a.m. at the intersection of Panama Lane and Stine Road.

Authorities said a vehicle traveling west on Panama Lane collided with a vehicle headed south on Stine Road. A female passenger in the southbound vehicle was ejected and found in the roadway. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the southbound vehicle sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital. The driver of the westbound vehicle suffered minor injuries.

Police said speed and alcohol appeared to be factors, though it has not been confirmed which driver, or if both, was impaired.

During the investigation, two motorists drove through police barricades. Both were arrested on suspicion of DUI after officers determined they were under the influence.

The investigation is ongoing.

Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers in Bakersfield, CA

Collisions involving suspected impaired driving often result in devastating outcomes, including fatalities and serious injuries. Families and survivors may face sudden loss, medical bills, and uncertainty about how to move forward. Learning about possible legal options may help provide direction during this difficult time.

Our DUI accident victim lawyers in Bakersfield can assist victims and families after a serious crash. This may include reviewing official reports, preserving evidence, and explaining the process of pursuing a personal injury or wrongful death claim, depending on the circumstances. Some incidents, such as those involving reckless driving or speeding, can make the legal process more complex.

When drunk driving is a factor, families may seek help from experienced drunk driving accident lawyers, who can guide them through both the criminal and civil aspects of the case. Additionally, some victims consult accident lawyers in Bakersfield to navigate broader legal issues that may arise in these types of collisions.

Call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A DUI Accident In Bakersfield, CA

The aftermath of a DUI crash can be overwhelming, especially when it involves fatalities or life-threatening injuries. Taking certain steps may help preserve important information and protect your rights:

1. Call 911 And Report The Crash
   Ensure emergency responders and law enforcement are contacted so the scene is documented and medical aid is provided.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
   Even if injuries seem minor, prompt evaluation is important, as some conditions are not immediately apparent.
3. Document The Scene And Injuries
   If safe, take photographs of the vehicles, roadway, and any visible injuries. These records may provide useful context.
4. Collect Witness Information
   Obtain names and contact details of any witnesses who saw the collision. Their statements may help clarify the events.
5. Consult DUI Accident Victim Lawyers
   An attorney can explain potential legal options, assist with insurance matters, and help preserve time-sensitive evidence. Early involvement may help ensure the case is handled appropriately.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

Drunk driving continues to pose a major safety risk across the country. In 2023, an estimated 12,429 people died in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. On average, 34 lives are lost each day, or roughly one every 42 minutes.

These incidents are largely preventable. Avoiding alcohol-impaired driving is a key step toward improving road safety nationwide.