Bakersfield, California — A pedestrian crash on South Union Avenue resulted in a tragic loss early Monday morning, underscoring ongoing safety concerns for pedestrians across Kern County. Incidents like this can have lasting emotional and legal consequences for victims’ families, particularly when the circumstances are still under investigation.
What Happened on South Union Avenue
According to authorities, the pedestrian crash on South Union Avenue occurred on January 12, 2026, at approximately 6:17 a.m. California Highway Patrol officers responded to reports of a vehicle striking a pedestrian in the 5300 block of South Union Avenue, just south of Calle De Oro.
Preliminary findings indicate a 68-year-old man was driving a 2012 Toyota Yaris southbound when a 25-year-old woman entered the roadway outside a marked crosswalk. The pedestrian was struck and sustained critical injuries.
Emergency responders arrived shortly after and pronounced the woman deceased at the scene. The driver remained at the location and cooperated with investigators. CHP continues to examine whether impairment or other contributing factors were involved.
Factors Reviewed in Fatal Pedestrian Crash Investigations
When a pedestrian crash on South Union Avenue results in a fatality, California law allows for a careful review of liability and potential civil claims. Even if a pedestrian was outside a crosswalk, fault is not automatically assigned to one party. Investigators and attorneys often examine the full context of the incident.
Important factors that may be evaluated include:
- Driver awareness, reaction time, and adherence to traffic laws
- Speed, lighting conditions, and visibility at the time of impact
- Whether roadway design or signage contributed to the collision
- Eligibility for a wrongful death claim by surviving relatives
These legal reviews are separate from criminal investigations and focus on whether compensation may be available to help families manage the long-term consequences of their loss.
Support and Legal Clarity for Fil-Am Families
Kapwa Justice provides culturally aware legal support for Filipino Americans in California affected by serious accidents. If your family has questions after a pedestrian crash, speaking with a personal injury lawyer can help clarify your options. We offer FREE consultations to evaluate your potential claims and clearly outline the next steps.
📞 Contact us today to learn how legal guidance may help during this challenging period.
