BAKERSFIELD, CA (NOVEMBER 7, 2023): 38-year-old José de Jésus Gómez has been arrested for vehicular manslaughter following a crash in Bakersfield that killed three women last week.
The collision occurred on Friday, November 3rd at around 5:36 a.m., according to the California Highway Patrol. Gómez failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of South Edison Road and Di Giorgio Road, colliding with a vehicle occupied by three women.
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Unfortunately all three women were pronounced dead at the scene by responding emergency personnel. Their identities were released shortly after. 56-year-old Gabina Santiago de Arias was driving the vehicle, with 36-year-old Yolanda Godinez and 28-year-old Darli Santiago as passengers.
Gómez sustained only minor injuries in the collision.
While the victims have been identified, their exact cause of death has not been ruled. A postmortem investigation will reveal more information about the contributing injuries that resulted in these women’s deaths.
Drugs and alcohol have not been reported as contributing factors in this collision, and Gómez has not been charged with any DUI-related offenses.
The California Highway Patrol will oversee this investigation of vehicular manslaughter by José de Jésus Gómez to clarify surrounding circumstances.
Liability In Bakersfield Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating José de Jésus Gómez’s Vehicular Manslaughter
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of the three woman killed in this collision. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a Bakersfield car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.