(Bakersfield, CA) A suspected Union Avenue DUI collision caused by Jaime Oceguera, 35, killed Juana Jasmine Orozco Guerrero, 16, in Bakersfield.
On Sunday, August 10, at 6:06 p.m., Bakersfield police dispatched to the Union Avenue crash. It happened on Union Avenue, between Columbus Street and Monte Vista Drive.
When police investigated, they learned Jaime Oceguera drove a Jeep Patriot westbound on Panorama Drive. All of a sudden, he veered into the northbound lane of Union Avenue, crashing into a Hyundai. According to a Bakersfield Police Department release, officers pronounced Juana Jasmine Orozco Guerrero, a passenger in the Hyundai, dead.
Jaime Oceguera sustained moderate injuries from the Union Avenue crash. Paramedics arrived and transported him to a hospital. Once the hospital clears him of his injuries, Oceguera will be arrested for driving under the influence, causing death, and driving the wrong way.
Legal Opinion of the Union Avenue Crash
The Union Avenue crash that killed Juana Jasmine Orozco Guerrero involves multiple serious violations of California law. Driving under the influence is prohibited under California Vehicle Code 23152. Prosecutors can charge gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated under California Penal Code 191.5(a). In addition, the fact that Jaime Oceguera veered into oncoming traffic violates VEH 21651, which prohibits driving on the wrong side of a highway or crossing.
According to Bakersfield police, Oceguera, crossed into the northbound lane of Union Avenue and collided with the Hyundai carrying Guerrero. This head-on impact left her dead at the scene and caused moderate injuries to Oceguera himself. Because impairment has been confirmed as a suspected factor, the case will be treated as both a criminal prosecution and a potential civil wrongful death matter.
Guerrero’s family has a strong wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. They can recover damages for funeral expenses and loss of companionship. Given that Oceguera is facing DUI charges, the family may also seek punitive damages. In addition, the driver of the Hyundai, if not at fault, could also pursue a personal injury claim for their own losses.
What the Family Can Do
The family of Juana Jasmine Orozco Guerrero should contact a wrongful death attorney immediately. The Bakersfield Police Department’s report, DUI test results, and crash scene evidence will be crucial in proving liability. The attorney can also track Oceguera’s criminal case, as a conviction for DUI causing death. Because DUI fatality cases often involve large insurance claims and potential punitive damages, it is important to act quickly. By moving promptly, the family can protect their rights, hold Oceguera accountable, and secure the financial resources needed to cope with the devastating loss of Guerrero.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
