Bakersfield, CA (October 24, 2023) 32-year-old Ana Alvarez was arrested for driving under the influence after she crashed into a Bakersfield police squad car on Saturday, October 21st. The Bakersfield Police Department said Alvarez is a Kern County Sheriff’s deputy who was off-duty at the time of the collision.
According to officers, a Bakersfield Police Department officer was driving in his patrol car on Stockdale Highway and Village Lane, near the In-N-Out Burger franchise, when his vehicle was struck. Following the collision, officers learned that the driver who struck the patrol car was an off-duty deputy who was driving her own, personal vehicle.
Have you or someone you know been injured in an accident? Reach out to us at any time at 844-966-0965
Alvarez was obviously intoxicated and was arrested at the scene for driving under the influence. Officers also discovered that she was driving, while intoxicated, with children in her car. Offers found three boys, ages 2, 6 and 7, and one girl, who was 4-years-old. Bakersfield Police Department Public information Officer Andrew Tipton said Alvarez was also charged with child endangerment.
The children were uninjured in the collision and the Bakersfield police officer whose vehicle was struck was also uninjured. Tow trucks were called to remove Alvarez’s vehicle from the scene as evidence.
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 thoughts to the children involved 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 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.