Bakersfield, CA – November 3, 2025 | Ayuda California News
An 8-year-old boy and his father were seriously injured after being struck by a suspected drunk driver Monday afternoon in East Bakersfield, authorities reported.
The DUI crash in Bakersfield occurred around 12:09 p.m. in the 1400 block of East California Avenue, near Haley Street, when the driver of a westbound pickup truck lost control, crashed through a fence, and plowed into a parking lot where a food truck was stationed.
The vehicle struck a man and his 8-year-old son, who were at the scene. The boy sustained life-threatening injuries, while his father suffered moderate trauma. Both were rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.
The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Andrés Serna, was allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol, according to the Bakersfield Police Department. Serna was arrested and taken to a hospital for medical evaluation before being booked into custody.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact (661) 327-7111.
DUI Crashes on the Rise in Bakersfield 🚨
Kern County, where Bakersfield is located, ranks among the top five California counties with the most DUI-related crashes, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS).
In 2024 alone, more than 1,200 people were injured or killed in DUI-related collisions.
Legal Rights for Victims and Their Families
Victims of drunk driving accidents have the right to pursue civil and criminal compensation, regardless of the driver’s criminal prosecution outcome.
Under California Civil Code §§1714 and California Civil Code §§3333, and Penal Code §191.5(b) (vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated), victims may seek compensation for:
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Lost income due to recovery or disability
- Emotional and psychological damages caused by trauma or family impact
- Punitive damages (CC §3294) if gross negligence or a conscious decision to drive intoxicated is proven
If the injuries are fatal, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure §§377.60–377.61.
Impact on the Latino Community in Bakersfield
Tragedies like this deeply affect the Latino community in California’s Central Valley, where thousands of families work in agriculture, construction, and local commerce, often walking or working near busy roads.
In neighborhoods such as East Bakersfield, food trucks, street vendors, and local markets are central to daily life — and traffic crashes, often caused by drunk or distracted drivers, have disproportionately impacted Hispanic families.
Many Latino victims, especially those with mixed immigration status, face fear, language barriers, and a lack of information when trying to exercise their legal rights.
That’s why at Ayuda California, we’re committed to ensuring that all victims — regardless of immigration status — receive the protection and legal support they deserve.
Ayuda California: Justice for DUI Victims
At Ayuda California, we believe no family should pay the price for someone else’s recklessness.
We offer free, confidential legal consultations in Spanish, regardless of immigration status.
We can help you with:
✅ Claims for serious injury or wrongful death
✅ Negotiation with insurance companies and state funds
✅ Representation in criminal and civil proceedings
Call us today.
Ayuda California — Defending your rights, your family, and your future.
