Bakersfield, CA (August 18, 2023) A fatal crash in Bakersfield left 1 person dead and another critically injured. 1 person was arrested for DUI that caused the collision on California Avenue Thursday night.
Police officers were called to the intersection of Chester Avenue and California Avenue after receiving reports of a 2-vehicle collision. A sedan had been traveling north on Chester Avenue and a pickup was driving west on California Avenue. The two vehicles collided in the intersection.
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Authorities found the driver and passenger of the sedan, a man and a woman, both suffering from serious injuries. They were both transported to a local hospital for treatment, where the passenger was later pronounced dead. The woman remains in critical condition with life-threatening injuries, according to police.
The driver of the pickup was uninjured and remained at the scene. The Bakersfield Police Department determined that the driver, Luis Esquivel, age 48, was driving while under the influence of alcohol. He was placed under arrest for DUI, murder, driving with a suspended license, and traffic violations.
Liability In Bakersfield DUI Car Accidents
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 23152, “(a) It is unlawful for a person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage to drive a vehicle. (b) It is unlawful for a person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle.” Even small amounts of alcohol can substantially impair drivers in the following ways:
- Delayed reaction times
- Loss of muscle control
- Impaired judgment
- Lowered alertness
The family of any victim that has been injured or killed in a collision with a drunk driver may have legal recourse through a bodily injury or wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Bakersfield DUI Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the person killed in this crash. 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 an accident that took place in Bakersfield? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. Whether you just have legal questions or need more information about an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.