Bakersfield, CA. – In the early hours of Tuesday, November 25, 2025, a vehicle versus pedestrian collision claimed the life of 43-year-old Yolanda Ponceaguilera of Bakersfield, according to KGET.
The Bakersfield Police Department reports that the accident took place around 4:30 AM near the intersection of White Lane and Akers Road. Authorities stated that the collision occurred as Ponceaguilera was crossing outside of a designated crosswalk in the southwest Bakersfield area.
Following the impact, Ponceaguilera was transported by emergency responders to Kern Medical for treatment. Despite life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the hospital, officials said.
Police said the driver involved initially fled the scene after the collision. Investigators later located the driver, who was arrested on suspicion of hit and run and false vehicle registration. The Bakersfield Police Department continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, which includes being vigilant for those travelling by foot and, if a collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
Should the at-fault driver evade authorities, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
Partial Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
California Law does not consider pedestrians to have the right-of-way under all circumstances, such as if they attempt to cross outside of a crosswalk. However, motorists are never relieved of the expectation to provide pedestrians with a Duty of Care toward their safety.
It may therefore be determined that a motorist is subject to only partial liability in a pedestrian accident. Should that be the case, they would be financially responsible for the victim’s recovery costs in proportion to their degree of liability.
Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
