Bakersfield, CA — A two-vehicle collision in south Bakersfield on Friday night, November 22, 2024, resulted in the death of a 12-year-old girl and left her 11-year-old sibling with serious injuries, according to the Bakersfield Police Department, according to KGET.
The accident occurred around 7:24 PM at the intersection of South Union Avenue and Hosking Avenue.
Police say Diego Godinez, 35, was driving a Chevrolet SUV northbound on South Union Avenue when he struck a Honda sedan making a left turn onto the northbound lanes from Hosking Avenue.
Two children were passengers in the Honda sedan. Both sustained major injuries and were transported to Kern Medical, where the 12-year-old was pronounced deceased.
Godinez, the sole occupant of the Chevrolet, suffered moderate injuries. Police allege that he was under the influence of alcohol and driving at excessive speed. He was arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter and DUI-related offenses and will be booked into jail once medically cleared.
The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Bakersfield Police 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 compensation can help cover medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income that the family depended on.
However, insurance companies will always try to pay as little as possible, making it difficult for families to receive the full amount they deserve. So, having an experienced personal injury attorney is essential to receive fair compensation and justice for your loved one.
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact Maison Law for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
