Bakersfield, CA – On the evening of Monday, February 26, 2025, a 12-year-old boy suffered critical head injuries after falling from an SUV while his father was allegedly driving under the influence, according to KGET.
The Bakersfield Police Department reports that the incident occurred around 7:30 PM near the intersection of Kanosh Cobble Drive and Agassiz Rock Way.
According to investigators, Jose Medrano-Tapia, 35, was driving a Chevy Tahoe with his three children inside when his 12-year-old son stood on the vehicle’s sidestep and held onto a side mirror. Police say Medrano-Tapia then accelerated before suddenly braking in what he described as a “playful manner.” The abrupt stop caused the child to lose his grip and fall, striking his head on the pavement.
The boy was transported to Valley Children’s Hospital in Madera, where he was treated for skull fractures and brain bleeding. His current condition has not been released.
A preliminary breath test showed Medrano-Tapia had a blood-alcohol level of 0.09%, above the legal limit. He was arrested on suspicion of DUI causing injury and child endangerment.
Police reviewed surveillance footage of the incident, which they say contradicts Medrano-Tapia’s initial statement that his son got onto the sidestep without permission. He is scheduled to appear in court next week.
California DUI Law
Section 23153(a) of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) states that it is illegal for any driver to “Operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to someone else.”
Passenger Liability
Driver liability insurance covers both those outside the vehicle and passengers inside. While it can be emotionally difficult to file a Personal Injury claim against someone close to the victim, the financial challenges after an accident can be overwhelming.
A skilled personal injury attorney can help families pursue proper compensation for their loss by handling these legal complexities and negotiating with insurance companies, who always try to reduce payouts on claims they cannot deny.
Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
