Bakersfield, CA – On the night of Tuesday, June 10, 2025, a two-vehicle collision at a busy intersection left one man dead and two others injured, according to KBAK.
The Bakersfield Police Department reports that the crash occurred just after 11:30 PM at the intersection of Union Avenue and East California Avenue.
Investigators say the driver of a white BMW was heading northbound on Union Avenue when they allegedly ran a red light and struck a Dodge Charger that was traveling westbound through the intersection on a green signal. The impact caused significant damage and resulted in both vehicles catching fire, according to reports from the scene.
The man driving the Dodge Charger sustained severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The driver of the BMW suffered moderate injuries, while a male passenger in the BMW sustained critical injuries and was listed in unstable condition.
Authorities believe speed and alcohol were contributing factors in the crash. The Kern County Coroner’s Office will release the identity of the deceased once family notifications are complete.
Bakersfield police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and urge anyone with information to contact their department.
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.”
Wrongful Death Claims
Even if a fatal accident doesn’t lead to criminal charges, families who lose a loved one can still file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide support to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income.
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.
